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| author | Roger Frank <rfrank@pglaf.org> | 2025-10-15 05:26:37 -0700 |
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| committer | Roger Frank <rfrank@pglaf.org> | 2025-10-15 05:26:37 -0700 |
| commit | 96e3f5d9a1736062a719c0bb4ebd8773234e4e0f (patch) | |
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html + PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN" + "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd" > + +<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" lang="en"> + <head> + <title> + Peveril of the Peak, by Sir Walter Scott, Bart. + </title> + <style type="text/css"> + <!-- + body { margin:5%; background:#faebd0; text-align:justify} + P { text-indent: 1em; margin-top: .25em; margin-bottom: .25em; } + H1,H2,H3,H4,H5,H6 { text-align: center; margin-left: 15%; margin-right: 15%; } + hr { width: 50%; text-align: center;} + .foot { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; text-indent: -3em; font-size: 90%; } + blockquote {font-size: 97%; font-style: italic; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%;} + .mynote {background-color: #DDE; color: #000; padding: .5em; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 95%;} + .toc { margin-left: 10%; margin-bottom: .75em;} + .toc2 { margin-left: 20%;} + .indent5 { margin-left: 5%;} + .indent10 { margin-left: 10%;} + .indent15 { margin-left: 15%;} + .indent20 { margin-left: 20%;} + .indent30 { margin-left: 30%;} + div.fig { display:block; margin:0 auto; text-align:center; } + div.middle { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; } + .figleft {float: left; margin-left: 0%; margin-right: 1%;} + .figright {float: right; margin-right: 0%; margin-left: 1%;} + .pagenum {display:inline; font-size: 100%; font-style:normal; + margin: 0; padding: 0; position: absolute; right: 1%; + text-align: right;} + .side { float: left; font-size: 75%; width: 25%; padding-left: 0.8em; + border-left: dashed thin; text-align: left; + text-indent: 0; font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; + font-weight: bold; color: black; background: #eeeeee; border: solid 1px;} + p.pfirst, p.noindent {text-indent: 0} + span.dropcap { float: left; margin: 0 0.1em 0 0; line-height: 1 } + pre { font-style: italic; font-size: 90%; margin-left: 10%;} + --> +</style> + </head> + <body> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + +The Project Gutenberg EBook of Peveril of the Peak, by Sir Walter Scott + +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: Peveril of the Peak + +Author: Sir Walter Scott + +Release Date: May 1, 2009 [EBook #5959] +Last Updated: July 25, 2014 + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK PEVERIL OF THE PEAK *** + + + + +Produced by Emma Wong Shee, John Bickers, Dagny, and David Widger + + + + + + +</pre> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <h1> + PEVERIL OF THE PEAK + </h1> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h2> + By Sir Walter Scott, Bart. + </h2> +<div class="fig" style="width:65%;"> + <img src="images/0001m.jpg" alt="0001m " width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <h5> + <a href="images/0001.jpg"><i>Original</i></a> + </h5> + +<div class="fig" style="width:65%;"> + <img src="images/0013m.jpg" alt="0013m " width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <h5> + <a href="images/0013.jpg"><i>Original</i></a> + </h5> + +<div class="fig" style="width:65%;"> + <img src="images/0581m.jpg" alt="0581m " width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <h5> + <a href="images/0581.jpg"><i>Original</i></a> + </h5> + +<div class="fig" style="width:65%;"> + <img src="images/0006m.jpg" alt="0006m " width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <h5> + <a href="images/0006.jpg"><i>Original</i></a> + </h5> + +<div class="fig" style="width:65%;"> + <img src="images/0012m.jpg" alt="0012m " width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <h5> + <a href="images/0012.jpg"><i>Original</i></a> + </h5> + +<div class="fig" style="width:65%;"> + <img src="images/0011m.jpg" alt="0011m " width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <h5> + <a href="images/0011.jpg"><i>Original</i></a> + </h5> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <blockquote> + <p class="toc"> + <big><b>CONTENTS</b></big> + </p> + <p> + <br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0001"> <big><b>PEVERIL OF THE PEAK</b></big> + </a><br /><br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0001"> CHAPTER I </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0002"> CHAPTER II </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0003"> CHAPTER III </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0004"> CHAPTER IV </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0005"> CHAPTER V </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0006"> CHAPTER VI </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0007"> CHAPTER VII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0008"> CHAPTER VIII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0009"> CHAPTER IX </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0010"> CHAPTER X </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0011"> CHAPTER XI </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0012"> CHAPTER XII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0013"> CHAPTER XIII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0014"> CHAPTER XIV </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0015"> CHAPTER XV </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0016"> CHAPTER XVI </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0017"> CHAPTER XVII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0018"> CHAPTER XVIII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0019"> CHAPTER XIX </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0020"> CHAPTER XX </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0021"> CHAPTER XXI </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0022"> CHAPTER XXII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0023"> CHAPTER XXIII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0024"> CHAPTER XXIV </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0025"> CHAPTER XXV </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0026"> CHAPTER XXVI </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0027"> CHAPTER XXVII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0028"> CHAPTER XXVIII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0029"> CHAPTER XXIX </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0030"> CHAPTER XXX </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0031"> CHAPTER XXXI </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0032"> CHAPTER XXXII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0033"> CHAPTER XXXIII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0034"> CHAPTER XXXIV </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0035"> CHAPTER XXXV </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0036"> CHAPTER XXXVI </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0037"> CHAPTER XXXVII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0038"> CHAPTER XXXVIII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0039"> CHAPTER XXXIX </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0040"> CHAPTER XL </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0041"> CHAPTER XLI </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0042"> CHAPTER XLII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0043"> CHAPTER XLIII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0044"> CHAPTER XLIV </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0045"> CHAPTER XLV </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0046"> CHAPTER XLVI </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0047"> CHAPTER XLVII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0048"> CHAPTER XLVIII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0049"> CHAPTER XLIX </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="link2H_4_0001" id="link2H_4_0001"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <h1> + PEVERIL OF THE PEAK + </h1> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0001" id="link2HCH0001"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER I + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + When civil dudgeon first grew high, + And men fell out, they knew not why; + When foul words, jealousies, and fears, + Set folk together by the ears— + —BUTLER. +</pre> + <p> + William, the Conqueror of England, was, or supposed himself to be, the + father of a certain William Peveril, who attended him to the battle of + Hastings, and there distinguished himself. The liberal-minded monarch, who + assumed in his charters the veritable title of Gulielmus Bastardus, was + not likely to let his son's illegitimacy be any bar to the course of his + royal favour, when the laws of England were issued from the mouth of the + Norman victor, and the lands of the Saxons were at his unlimited disposal. + William Peveril obtained a liberal grant of property and lordships in + Derbyshire, and became the erecter of that Gothic fortress, which, hanging + over the mouth of the Devil's Cavern, so well known to tourists, gives the + name of Castleton to the adjacent village. + </p> + <p> + From this feudal Baron, who chose his nest upon the principles on which an + eagle selects her eyry, and built it in such a fashion as if he had + intended it, as an Irishman said of the Martello towers, for the sole + purpose of puzzling posterity, there was, or conceived themselves to be, + descended (for their pedigree was rather hypothetical) an opulent family + of knightly rank, in the same county of Derby. The great fief of + Castleton, with its adjacent wastes and forests, and all the wonders which + they contain, had been forfeited in King John's stormy days, by one + William Peveril, and had been granted anew to the Lord Ferrers of that + day. Yet this William's descendants, though no longer possessed of what + they alleged to have been their original property, were long distinguished + by the proud title of Peverils of the Peak, which served to mark their + high descent and lofty pretensions. + </p> + <p> + In Charles the Second's time, the representative of this ancient family + was Sir Geoffrey Peveril, a man who had many of the ordinary attributes of + an old-fashioned country gentleman, and very few individual traits to + distinguish him from the general portrait of that worthy class of mankind. + He was proud of small advantages, angry at small disappointments, + incapable of forming any resolution or opinion abstracted from his own + prejudices—he was proud of his birth, lavish in his housekeeping, + convivial with those kindred and acquaintances, who would allow his + superiority in rank—contentious and quarrelsome with all that + crossed his pretensions—kind to the poor, except when they plundered + his game—a Royalist in his political opinions, and one who detested + alike a Roundhead, a poacher, and a Presbyterian. In religion Sir Geoffrey + was a high-churchman, of so exalted a strain that many thought he still + nourished in private the Roman Catholic tenets, which his family had only + renounced in his father's time, and that he had a dispensation for + conforming in outward observances to the Protestant faith. There was at + least such a scandal amongst the Puritans, and the influence which Sir + Geoffrey Peveril certainly appeared to possess amongst the Catholic + gentlemen of Derbyshire and Cheshire, seemed to give countenance to the + rumour. + </p> + <p> + Such was Sir Geoffrey, who might have passed to his grave without further + distinction than a brass-plate in the chancel, had he not lived in times + which forced the most inactive spirits into exertion, as a tempest + influences the sluggish waters of the deadest mere. When the Civil Wars + broke out, Peveril of the Peak, proud from pedigree, and brave by + constitution, raised a regiment for the King, and showed upon several + occasions more capacity for command than men had heretofore given him + credit for. + </p> + <p> + Even in the midst of the civil turmoil, he fell in love with, and married, + a beautiful and amiable young lady of the noble house of Stanley; and from + that time had the more merit in his loyalty, as it divorced him from her + society, unless at very brief intervals, when his duty permitted an + occasional visit to his home. Scorning to be allured from his military + duty by domestic inducements, Peveril of the Peak fought on for several + rough years of civil war, and performed his part with sufficient + gallantry, until his regiment was surprised and cut to pieces by Poyntz, + Cromwell's enterprising and successful general of cavalry. The defeated + Cavalier escaped from the field of battle, and, like a true descendant of + William the Conqueror, disdaining submission, threw himself into his own + castellated mansion, which was attacked and defended in a siege of that + irregular kind which caused the destruction of so many baronial residences + during the course of those unhappy wars. Martindale Castle, after having + suffered severely from the cannon which Cromwell himself brought against + it, was at length surrendered when in the last extremity. Sir Geoffrey + himself became a prisoner, and while his liberty was only restored upon a + promise of remaining a peaceful subject to the Commonwealth in future, his + former delinquencies, as they were termed by the ruling party, were + severely punished by fine and sequestration. + </p> + <p> + But neither his forced promise, nor the fear of farther unpleasant + consequences to his person or property, could prevent Peveril of the Peak + from joining the gallant Earl of Derby the night before the fatal + engagement in Wiggan Lane, where the Earl's forces were dispersed. Sir + Geoffrey having had his share in that action, escaped with the relics of + the Royalists after the defeat, to join Charles II. He witnessed also the + final defeat of Worcester, where he was a second time made prisoner; and + as, in the opinion of Cromwell and the language of the times, he was + regarded as an obstinate malignant, he was in great danger of having + shared with the Earl of Derby his execution at Bolton-le-Moor, having + partaken with him the dangers of two actions. But Sir Geoffrey's life was + preserved by the interest of a friend, who possessed influence in the + councils of Oliver.—This was a Mr. Bridgenorth, a gentleman of + middling quality, whose father had been successful in some commercial + adventure during the peaceful reign of James I.; and who had bequeathed + his son a considerable sum of money, in addition to the moderate patrimony + which he inherited from his father. + </p> + <p> + The substantial, though small-sized, brick building of Moultrassie Hall, + was but two miles distant from Martindale Castle, and the young + Bridgenorth attended the same school with the heir of the Peverils. A sort + of companionship, if not intimacy, took place betwixt them, which + continued during their youthful sports—the rather that Bridgenorth, + though he did not at heart admit Sir Geoffrey's claims of superiority to + the extent which the other's vanity would have exacted, paid deference in + a reasonable degree to the representative of a family so much more ancient + and important than his own, without conceiving that he in any respect + degraded himself by doing so. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Bridgenorth did not, however, carry his complaisance so far as to + embrace Sir Geoffrey's side during the Civil War. On the contrary, as an + active Justice of the Peace, he rendered much assistance in arraying the + militia in the cause of the Parliament, and for some time held a military + commission in that service. This was partly owing to his religious + principles, for he was a zealous Presbyterian, partly to his political + ideas, which, without being absolutely democratical, favoured the popular + side of the great national question. Besides, he was a moneyed man, and to + a certain extent had a shrewd eye to his worldly interest. He understood + how to improve the opportunities which civil war afforded, of advancing + his fortune, by a dexterous use of his capital; and he was not at a loss + to perceive that these were likely to be obtained in joining the + Parliament; while the King's cause, as it was managed, held out nothing to + the wealthy but a course of exaction and compulsory loans. For these + reasons, Bridgenorth became a decided Roundhead, and all friendly + communication betwixt his neighbour and him was abruptly broken asunder. + This was done with the less acrimony, that, during the Civil War, Sir + Geoffrey was almost constantly in the field, following the vacillating and + unhappy fortunes of his master; while Major Bridgenorth, who soon + renounced active military service, resided chiefly in London, and only + occasionally visited the Hall. + </p> + <p> + Upon these visits, it was with great pleasure he received the + intelligence, that Lady Peveril had shown much kindness to Mrs. + Bridgenorth, and had actually given her and her family shelter in + Martindale Castle, when Moultrassie Hall was threatened with pillage by a + body of Prince Rupert's ill-disciplined Cavaliers. This acquaintance had + been matured by frequent walks together, which the vicinity of their + places of residence suffered the Lady Peveril to have with Mrs. + Bridgenorth, who deemed herself much honoured in being thus admitted into + the society of so distinguished a lady. Major Bridgenorth heard of this + growing intimacy with great pleasure, and he determined to repay the + obligation, as far as he could without much hurt to himself, by + interfering with all his influence, in behalf of her unfortunate husband. + It was chiefly owing to Major Bridgenorth's mediation, that Sir Geoffrey's + life was saved after the battle of Worcester. He obtained him permission + to compound for his estate on easier terms than many who had been less + obstinate in malignancy; and, finally, when, in order to raise the money + to the composition, the Knight was obliged to sell a considerable portion + of his patrimony, Major Bridgenorth became the purchaser, and that at a + larger price than had been paid to any Cavalier under such circumstances, + by a member of the Committee for Sequestrations. It is true, the prudent + committeeman did not, by any means, lose sight of his own interest in the + transaction, for the price was, after all, very moderate, and the property + lay adjacent to Moultrassie Hall, the value of which was at least trebled + by the acquisition. But then it was also true, that the unfortunate owner + must have submitted to much worse conditions, had the committeeman used, + as others did, the full advantages which his situation gave him; and + Bridgenorth took credit to himself, and received it from others, for + having, on this occasion, fairly sacrificed his interest to his + liberality. + </p> + <p> + Sir Geoffrey Peveril was of the same opinion, and the rather that Mr. + Bridgenorth seemed to bear his exaltation with great moderation, and was + disposed to show him personally the same deference in his present sunshine + of prosperity, which he had exhibited formerly in their early + acquaintance. It is but justice to Major Bridgenorth to observe, that in + this conduct he paid respect as much to the misfortunes as to the + pretensions of his far-descended neighbour, and that, with the frank + generosity of a blunt Englishman, he conceded points of ceremony, about + which he himself was indifferent, merely because he saw that his doing so + gave pleasure to Sir Geoffrey. + </p> + <p> + Peveril of the Peak did justice to his neighbour's delicacy, in + consideration of which he forgot many things. He forgot that Major + Bridgenorth was already in possession of a fair third of his estate, and + had various pecuniary claims affecting the remainder, to the extent of + one-third more. He endeavoured even to forget, what it was still more + difficult not to remember, the altered situation in which they and their + mansions now stood to each other. + </p> + <p> + Before the Civil War, the superb battlements and turrets of Martindale + Castle looked down on the red brick-built Hall, as it stole out from the + green plantations, just as an oak in Martindale Chase would have looked + beside one of the stunted and formal young beech-trees with which + Bridgenorth had graced his avenue; but after the siege which we have + commemorated, the enlarged and augmented Hall was as much predominant in + the landscape over the shattered and blackened ruins of the Castle, of + which only one wing was left habitable, as the youthful beech, in all its + vigour of shoot and bud, would appear to the same aged oak stripped of its + boughs, and rifted by lightning, one-half laid in shivers on the ground, + and the other remaining a blackened and ungraceful trunk, rent and + splintered, and without either life or leaves. Sir Geoffrey could not but + feel, that the situation and prospects were exchanged as disadvantageously + for himself as the appearance of their mansions; and that though the + authority of the man in office under the Parliament, the sequestrator, and + the committeeman, had been only exerted for the protection of the Cavalier + and the malignant, they would have been as effectual if applied to procure + his utter ruin; and that he was become a client, while his neighbour was + elevated into a patron. + </p> + <p> + There were two considerations, besides the necessity of the case and the + constant advice of his lady, which enabled Peveril of the Peak to endure, + with some patience, this state of degradation. The first was, that the + politics of Major Bridgenorth began, on many points, to assimilate + themselves to his own. As a Presbyterian, he was not an utter enemy to + monarchy, and had been considerably shocked at the unexpected trial and + execution of the King; as a civilian and a man of property, he feared the + domination of the military; and though he wished not to see Charles + restored by force of arms, yet he arrived at the conclusion, that to bring + back the heir of the royal family on such terms of composition as might + ensure the protection of those popular immunities and privileges for which + the Long Parliament had at first contended, would be the surest and most + desirable termination to the mutations in state affairs which had agitated + Britain. Indeed, the Major's ideas on this point approached so nearly + those of his neighbour, that he had well-nigh suffered Sir Geoffrey, who + had a finger in almost all the conspiracies of the Royalists, to involve + him in the unfortunate rising of Penruddock and Groves, in the west, in + which many of the Presbyterian interest, as well as the Cavalier party, + were engaged. And though his habitual prudence eventually kept him out of + this and other dangers, Major Bridgenorth was considered during the last + years of Cromwell's domination, and the interregnum which succeeded, as a + disaffected person to the Commonwealth, and a favourer of Charles Stewart. + </p> + <p> + But besides this approximation to the same political opinions, another + bond of intimacy united the families of the Castle and the Hall. Major + Bridgenorth, fortunate, and eminently so, in all his worldly transactions, + was visited by severe and reiterated misfortunes in his family, and + became, in this particular, an object of compassion to his poorer and more + decayed neighbour. Betwixt the breaking out of the Civil War and the + Restoration, he lost successively a family of no less than six children, + apparently through a delicacy of constitution, which cut off the little + prattlers at the early age when they most wind themselves round the heart + of the parents. + </p> + <p> + In the beginning of the year 1658, Major Bridgenorth was childless; ere it + ended, he had a daughter, indeed, but her birth was purchased by the death + of an affectionate wife, whose constitution had been exhausted by maternal + grief, and by the anxious and harrowing reflection, that from her the + children they had lost derived that delicacy of health, which proved + unable to undergo the tear and wear of existence. The same voice which + told Bridgenorth that he was the father of a living child (it was the + friendly voice of Lady Peveril), communicated to him the melancholy + intelligence that he was no longer a husband. The feelings of Major + Bridgenorth were strong and deep, rather than hasty and vehement; and his + grief assumed the form of a sullen stupor, from which neither the friendly + remonstrances of Sir Geoffrey, who did not fail to be with his neighbour + at this distressing conjuncture, even though he knew he must meet the + Presbyterian pastor, nor the ghastly exhortations of this latter person, + were able to rouse the unfortunate widower. + </p> + <p> + At length Lady Peveril, with the ready invention of a female sharped by + the sight of distress and the feelings of sympathy, tried on the sufferer + one of those experiments by which grief is often awakened from despondency + into tears. She placed in Bridgenorth's arms the infant whose birth had + cost him so dear, and conjured him to remember that his Alice was not yet + dead, since she survived in the helpless child she had left to his + paternal care. + </p> + <p> + "Take her away—take her away!" said the unhappy man, and they were + the first words he had spoken; "let me not look on her—it is but + another blossom that has bloomed to fade, and the tree that bore it will + never flourish more!" + </p> + <p> + He almost threw the child into Lady Peveril's arms, placed his hands + before his face, and wept aloud. Lady Peveril did not say "be comforted," + but she ventured to promise that the blossom should ripen to fruit. + </p> + <p> + "Never, never!" said Bridgenorth; "take the unhappy child away, and let me + only know when I shall wear black for her—Wear black!" he exclaimed, + interrupting himself, "what other colour shall I wear during the remainder + of my life?" + </p> + <p> + "I will take the child for a season," said Lady Peveril, "since the sight + of her is so painful to you; and the little Alice shall share the nursery + of our Julian, until it shall be pleasure and not pain for you to look on + her." + </p> + <p> + "That hour will never come," said the unhappy father; "her doom is written—she + will follow the rest—God's will be done.—Lady, I thank you—I + trust her to your care; and I thank God that my eye shall not see her + dying agonies." + </p> + <p> + Without detaining the reader's attention longer on this painful theme, it + is enough to say that the Lady Peveril did undertake the duties of a + mother to the little orphan; and perhaps it was owing, in a great measure, + to her judicious treatment of the infant, that its feeble hold of life was + preserved, since the glimmering spark might probably have been altogether + smothered, had it, like the Major's former children, undergone the + over-care and over-nursing of a mother rendered nervously cautious and + anxious by so many successive losses. The lady was the more ready to + undertake this charge, that she herself had lost two infant children; and + that she attributed the preservation of the third, now a fine healthy + child of three years old, to Julian's being subjected to rather a + different course of diet and treatment than was then generally practised. + She resolved to follow the same regiment with the little orphan, which she + had observed in the case of her own boy; and it was equally successful. By + a more sparing use of medicine, by a bolder admission of fresh air, by a + firm, yet cautious attention to encourage rather than to supersede the + exertions of nature, the puny infant, under the care of an excellent + nurse, gradually improved in strength and in liveliness. + </p> + <p> + Sir Geoffrey, like most men of his frank and good-natured disposition, was + naturally fond of children, and so much compassionated the sorrows of his + neighbour, that he entirely forgot his being a Presbyterian, until it + became necessary that the infant should be christened by a teacher of that + persuasion. + </p> + <p> + This was a trying case—the father seemed incapable of giving + direction; and that the threshold of Martindale Castle should be violated + by the heretical step of a dissenting clergyman, was matter of horror to + its orthodox owner. He had seen the famous Hugh Peters, with a Bible in + one hand and a pistol in the other, ride in triumph through the court-door + when Martindale was surrendered; and the bitterness of that hour had + entered like iron into his soul. Yet such was Lady Peveril's influence + over the prejudices of her husband, that he was induced to connive at the + ceremony taking place in a remote garden house, which was not properly + within the precincts of the Castle-wall. The lady even dared to be present + while the ceremony was performed by the Reverend Master Solsgrace, who had + once preached a sermon of three hours' length before the House of Commons, + upon a thanksgiving occasion after the relief of Exeter. Sir Geoffrey + Peveril took care to be absent the whole day from the Castle, and it was + only from the great interest which he took in the washing, perfuming, and + as it were purification of the summer-house, that it could have been + guessed he knew anything of what had taken place in it. + </p> + <p> + But, whatever prejudices the good Knight might entertain against his + neighbour's form of religion, they did not in any way influence his + feelings towards him as a sufferer under severe affliction. The mode in + which he showed his sympathy was rather singular, but exactly suited the + character of both, and the terms on which they stood with each other. + </p> + <p> + Morning after morning the good Baronet made Moultrassie Hall the + termination of his walk or ride, and said a single word of kindness as he + passed. Sometimes he entered the old parlour where the proprietor sat in + solitary wretchedness and despondency; but more frequently (for Sir + Geoffrey did not pretend to great talents of conversation), he paused on + the terrace, and stopping or halting his horse by the latticed window, + said aloud to the melancholy inmate, "How is it with you, Master + Bridgenorth?" (the Knight would never acknowledge his neighbour's military + rank of Major); "I just looked in to bid you keep a good heart, man, and + to tell you that Julian is well, and little Alice is well, and all are + well at Martindale Castle." + </p> + <p> + A deep sigh, sometimes coupled with "I thank you, Sir Geoffrey; my + grateful duty waits on Lady Peveril," was generally Bridgenorth's only + answer. But the news was received on the one part with the kindness which + was designed upon the other; it gradually became less painful and more + interesting; the lattice window was never closed, nor was the leathern + easy-chair which stood next to it ever empty, when the usual hour of the + Baronet's momentary visit approached. At length the expectation of that + passing minute became the pivot upon which the thoughts of poor + Bridgenorth turned during all the rest of the day. Most men have known the + influence of such brief but ruling moments at some period of their lives. + The moment when a lover passes the window of his mistress—the moment + when the epicure hears the dinner-bell,—is that into which is + crowded the whole interest of the day; the hours which precede it are + spent in anticipation; the hours which follow, in reflection on what has + passed; and fancy dwelling on each brief circumstance, gives to seconds + the duration of minutes, to minutes that of hours. Thus seated in his + lonely chair, Bridgenorth could catch at a distance the stately step of + Sir Geoffrey, or the heavy tramp of his war-horse, Black Hastings, which + had borne him in many an action; he could hear the hum of "The King shall + enjoy his own again," or the habitual whistle of "Cuckolds and + Roundheads," die unto reverential silence, as the Knight approached the + mansion of affliction; and then came the strong hale voice of the huntsman + soldier with its usual greeting. + </p> + <p> + By degrees the communication became something more protracted, as Major + Bridgenorth's grief, like all human feelings, lost its overwhelming + violence, and permitted him to attend, in some degree, to what passed + around him, to discharge various duties which pressed upon him, and to + give a share of attention to the situation of the country, distracted as + it was by the contending factions, whose strife only terminated in the + Restoration. Still, however, though slowly recovering from the effects of + the shock which he had sustained, Major Bridgenorth felt himself as yet + unable to make up his mind to the effort necessary to see his infant; and + though separated by so short a distance from the being in whose existence + he was more interested than in anything the world afforded, he only made + himself acquainted with the windows of the apartment where little Alice + was lodged, and was often observed to watch them from the terrace, as they + brightened in the evening under the influence of the setting sun. In + truth, though a strong-minded man in most respects, he was unable to lay + aside the gloomy impression that this remaining pledge of affection was + soon to be conveyed to that grave which had already devoured all besides + that was dear to him; and he awaited in miserable suspense the moment when + he should hear that symptoms of the fatal malady had begun to show + themselves. + </p> + <p> + The voice of Peveril continued to be that of a comforter until the month + of April 1660, when it suddenly assumed a new and different tone. "The + King shall enjoy his own again," far from ceasing, as the hasty tread of + Black Hastings came up the avenue, bore burden to the clatter of his hoofs + on the paved courtyard, as Sir Geoffrey sprang from his great war-saddle, + now once more garnished with pistols of two feet in length, and, armed + with steel-cap, back and breast, and a truncheon in his hand, he rushed + into the apartment of the astonished Major, with his eyes sparkling, and + his cheek inflamed, while he called out, "Up! up, neighbour! No time now + to mope in the chimney-corner! Where is your buff-coat and broadsword, + man? Take the true side once in your life, and mend past mistakes. The + King is all lenity, man—all royal nature and mercy. I will get your + full pardon." + </p> + <p> + "What means all this?" said Bridgenorth—"Is all well with you—all + well at Martindale Castle, Sir Geoffrey?" + </p> + <p> + "Well as you could wish them, Alice, and Julian, and all. But I have news + worth twenty of that—Monk has declared at London against those + stinking scoundrels the Rump. Fairfax is up in Yorkshire—for the + King—for the King, man! Churchmen, Presbyterians, and all, are in + buff and bandoleer for King Charles. I have a letter from Fairfax to + secure Derby and Chesterfield with all the men I can make. D—n him, + fine that I should take orders from him! But never mind that—all are + friends now, and you and I, good neighbour, will charge abreast, as good + neighbours should. See there! read—read—read—and then + boot and saddle in an instant. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + 'Hey for cavaliers—ho for cavaliers, + Pray for cavaliers, + Dub-a-dub, dub-a-dub, + Have at old Beelzebub, + Oliver shakes in his bier!'" +</pre> + <p> + After thundering forth this elegant effusion of loyal enthusiasm, the + sturdy Cavalier's heart became too full. He threw himself on a seat, and + exclaiming, "Did ever I think to live to see this happy day!" he wept, to + his own surprise, as much as to that of Bridgenorth. + </p> + <p> + Upon considering the crisis in which the country was placed, it appeared + to Major Bridgenorth, as it had done to Fairfax, and other leaders of the + Presbyterian party, that their frank embracing of the royal interest was + the wisest and most patriotic measure which they could adopt in the + circumstances, when all ranks and classes of men were seeking refuge from + the uncertainty and varied oppression attending the repeated contests + between the factions of Westminster Hall and of Wallingford House. + Accordingly he joined with Sir Geoffrey, with less enthusiasm indeed, but + with equal sincerity, taking such measures as seemed proper to secure + their part of the country on the King's behalf, which was done as + effectually and peaceably as in other parts of England. The neighbours + were both at Chesterfield, when news arrived that the King had landed in + England; and Sir Geoffrey instantly announced his purpose of waiting upon + his Majesty, even before his return to the Castle of Martindale. + </p> + <p> + "Who knows, neighbour," he said, "whether Sir Geoffrey Peveril will ever + return to Martindale? Titles must be going amongst them yonder, and I have + deserved something among the rest.—Lord Peveril would sound well—or + stay, Earl of Martindale—no, not of Martindale—Earl of the + Peak.—Meanwhile, trust your affairs to me—I will see you + secured—I would you had been no Presbyterian, neighbour—a + knighthood,—I mean a knight-bachelor, not a knight-baronet,—would + have served your turn well." + </p> + <p> + "I leave these things to my betters, Sir Geoffrey," said the Major, "and + desire nothing so earnestly as to find all well at Martindale when I + return." + </p> + <p> + "You will—you will find them all well," said the Baronet; "Julian, + Alice, Lady Peveril, and all of them—Bear my commendations to them, + and kiss them all, neighbour, Lady Peveril and all—you may kiss a + Countess when I come back; all will go well with you now you are turned + honest man." + </p> + <p> + "I always meant to be so, Sir Geoffrey," said Bridgenorth calmly. + </p> + <p> + "Well, well, well—no offence meant," said the Knight, "all is well + now—so you to Moultrassie Hall, and I to Whitehall. Said I well, + aha! So ho, mine host, a stoup of Canary to the King's health ere we get + to horse—I forgot, neighbour—you drink no healths." + </p> + <p> + "I wish the King's health as sincerely as if I drank a gallon to it," + replied the Major; "and I wish you, Sir Geoffrey, all success on your + journey, and a safe return." + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0002" id="link2HCH0002"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER II + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Why, then, we will have bellowing of beeves, + Broaching of barrels, brandishing of spigots; + Blood shall flow freely, but it shall be gore + Of herds and flocks, and venison and poultry, + Join'd to the brave heart's-blood of John-a-Barleycorn! + —OLD PLAY. +</pre> + <p> + Whatever rewards Charles might have condescended to bestow in + acknowledgement of the sufferings and loyalty of Peveril of the Peak, he + had none in his disposal equal to the pleasure which Providence had + reserved for Bridgenorth on his return to Derbyshire. The exertion to + which he had been summoned, had had the usual effect of restoring to a + certain extent the activity and energy of his character, and he felt it + would be unbecoming to relapse into the state of lethargic melancholy from + which it had roused him. Time also had its usual effect in mitigating the + subjects of his regret; and when he had passed one day at the Hall in + regretting that he could not expect the indirect news of his daughter's + health, which Sir Geoffrey used to communicate in his almost daily call, + he reflected that it would be in every respect becoming that he should pay + a personal visit at Martindale Castle, carry thither the remembrances of + the Knight to his lady, assure her of his health, and satisfy himself + respecting that of his daughter. He armed himself for the worst—he + called to recollection the thin cheeks, faded eye, wasted hand, pallid + lip, which had marked the decaying health of all his former infants. + </p> + <p> + "I shall see," he said, "these signs of mortality once more—I shall + once more see a beloved being to whom I have given birth, gliding to the + grave which ought to enclose me long before her. No matter—it is + unmanly so long to shrink from that which must be—God's will be + done!" + </p> + <p> + He went accordingly, on the subsequent morning, to Martindale Castle, and + gave the lady the welcome assurances of her husband's safety, and of his + hopes of preferment. + </p> + <p> + "For the first, may Almighty God be praised!" said the Lady Peveril; "and + be the other as our gracious and restored Sovereign may will it. We are + great enough for our means, and have means sufficient for contentment, + though not for splendour. And now I see, good Master Bridgenorth, the + folly of putting faith in idle presentiments of evil. So often had Sir + Geoffrey's repeated attempts in favour of the Stewarts led him into new + misfortunes, that when, the other morning, I saw him once more dressed in + his fatal armour, and heard the sound of his trumpet, which had been so + long silent, it seemed to me as if I saw his shroud, and heard his + death-knell. I say this to you, good neighbour, the rather because I fear + your own mind has been harassed with anticipations of impending calamity, + which it may please God to avert in your case as it has done in mine; and + here comes a sight which bears good assurance of it." + </p> + <p> + The door of the apartment opened as she spoke, and two lovely children + entered. The eldest, Julian Peveril, a fine boy betwixt four and five + years old, led in his hand, with an air of dignified support and + attention, a little girl of eighteen months, who rolled and tottered + along, keeping herself with difficulty upright by the assistance of her + elder, stronger, and masculine companion. + </p> + <p> + Bridgenorth cast a hasty and fearful glance upon the countenance of his + daughter, and, even in that glimpse, perceived, with exquisite delight, + that his fears were unfounded. He caught her in his arms, pressed her to + his heart, and the child, though at first alarmed at the vehemence of his + caresses, presently, as if prompted by Nature, smiled in reply to them. + Again he held her at some distance from him, and examined her more + attentively; he satisfied himself that the complexion of the young cherub + he had in his arms was not the hectic tinge of disease, but the clear hue + of ruddy health; and that though her little frame was slight, it was firm + and springy. + </p> + <p> + "I did not think that it could have been thus," he said, looking to Lady + Peveril, who had sat observing the scene with great pleasure; "but praise + be to God in the first instance, and next, thanks to you, madam, who have + been His instrument." + </p> + <p> + "Julian must lose his playfellow now, I suppose?" said the lady; "but the + Hall is not distant, and I will see my little charge often. Dame Martha, + the housekeeper at Moultrassie, has sense, and is careful. I will tell her + the rules I have observed with little Alice, and——" + </p> + <p> + "God forbid my girl should ever come to Moultrassie," said Major + Bridgenorth hastily; "it has been the grave of her race. The air of the + low grounds suited them not—or there is perhaps a fate connected + with the mansion. I will seek for her some other place of abode." + </p> + <p> + "That you shall not, under your favour be it spoken, Major Bridgenorth," + answered the lady. "If you do so, we must suppose that you are + undervaluing my qualities as a nurse. If she goes not to her father's + house, she shall not quit mine. I will keep the little lady as a pledge of + her safety and my own skill; and since you are afraid of the damp of the + low grounds, I hope you will come here frequently to visit her." + </p> + <p> + This was a proposal which went to the heart of Major Bridgenorth. It was + precisely the point which he would have given worlds to arrive at, but + which he saw no chance of attaining. + </p> + <p> + It is too well known, that those whose families are long pursued by such a + fatal disease as existed in his, become, it may be said, superstitious + respecting its fatal effects, and ascribe to place, circumstance, and + individual care, much more perhaps than these can in any case contribute + to avert the fatality of constitutional distemper. Lady Peveril was aware + that this was peculiarly the impression of her neighbour; that the + depression of his spirits, the excess of his care, the feverishness of his + apprehensions, the restraint and gloom of the solitude in which he dwelt, + were really calculated to produce the evil which most of all he dreaded. + She pitied him, she felt for him, she was grateful for former protection + received at his hands—she had become interested in the child itself. + What female fails to feel such interest in the helpless creature she has + tended? And to sum the whole up, the dame had a share of human vanity; and + being a sort of Lady Bountiful in her way (for the character was not then + confined to the old and the foolish), she was proud of the skill by which + she had averted the probable attacks of hereditary malady, so inveterate + in the family of Bridgenorth. It needed not, perhaps, in other cases, that + so many reasons should be assigned for an act of neighbourly humanity; but + civil war had so lately torn the country asunder, and broken all the usual + ties of vicinage and good neighbourhood, that it was unusual to see them + preserved among persons of different political opinions. + </p> + <p> + Major Bridgenorth himself felt this; and while the tear of joy in his eye + showed how gladly he would accept Lady Peveril's proposal, he could not + help stating the obvious inconveniences attendant upon her scheme, though + it was in the tone of one who would gladly hear them overruled. "Madam," + he said, "your kindness makes me the happiest and most thankful of men; + but can it be consistent with your own convenience? Sir Geoffrey has his + opinions on many points, which have differed, and probably do still + differ, from mine. He is high-born, and I of middling parentage only. He + uses the Church Service, and I the Catechism of the Assembly of Divines at + Westminster——" + </p> + <p> + "I hope you will find prescribed in neither of them," said the Lady + Peveril, "that I may not be a mother to your motherless child. I trust, + Master Bridgenorth, the joyful Restoration of his Majesty, a work wrought + by the direct hand of Providence, may be the means of closing and healing + all civil and religious dissensions among us, and that, instead of showing + the superior purity of our faith, by persecuting those who think otherwise + from ourselves on doctrinal points, we shall endeavour to show its real + Christian tendency, by emulating each other in actions of good-will + towards man, as the best way of showing our love to God." + </p> + <p> + "Your ladyship speaks what your own kind heart dictates," answered + Bridgenorth, who had his own share of the narrow-mindedness of the time; + "and sure am I, that if all who call themselves loyalists and Cavaliers, + thought like you—and like my friend Sir Geoffrey"—(this he + added after a moment's pause, being perhaps rather complimentary than + sincere)—"we, who thought it our duty in time past to take arms for + freedom of conscience, and against arbitrary power, might now sit down in + peace and contentment. But I wot not how it may fall. You have sharp and + hot spirits amongst you; I will not say our power was always moderately + used, and revenge is sweet to the race of fallen Adam." + </p> + <p> + "Come, Master Bridgenorth," said the Lady Peveril gaily, "those evil + omenings do but point out conclusions, which, unless they were so + anticipated, are most unlikely to come to pass. You know what Shakespeare + says— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + 'To fly the boar before the boar pursues, + Were to incense the boar to follow us, + And make pursuit when he did mean no chase.' +</pre> + <p> + "But I crave your pardon—it is so long since we have met, that I + forgot you love no play-books." + </p> + <p> + "With reverence to your ladyship," said Bridgenorth, "I were much to blame + did I need the idle words of a Warwickshire stroller, to teach me my + grateful duty to your ladyship on this occasion, which appoints me to be + directed by you in all things which my conscience will permit." + </p> + <p> + "Since you permit me such influence, then," replied the Lady Peveril, "I + shall be moderate in exercising it, in order that I may, in my domination + at least, give you a favourable impression of the new order of things. So, + if you will be a subject of mine for one day, neighbour, I am going, at my + lord and husband's command, to issue out my warrants to invite the whole + neighbourhood to a solemn feast at the Castle, on Thursday next; and I not + only pray you to be personally present yourself, but to prevail on your + worthy pastor, and such neighbours and friends, high and low, as may think + in your own way, to meet with the rest of the neighbourhood, to rejoice on + this joyful occasion of the King's Restoration, and thereby to show that + we are to be henceforward a united people." + </p> + <p> + The parliamentarian Major was considerably embarrassed by this proposal. + He looked upward, and downward, and around, cast his eye first to the + oak-carved ceiling, and anon fixed it upon the floor; then threw it around + the room till it lighted on his child, the sight of whom suggested another + and a better train of reflections than ceiling and floor had been able to + supply. + </p> + <p> + "Madam," he said, "I have long been a stranger to festivity, perhaps from + constitutional melancholy, perhaps from the depression which is natural to + a desolate and deprived man, in whose ear mirth is marred, like a pleasant + air when performed on a mistuned instrument. But though neither my + thoughts nor temperament are Jovial or Mercurial, it becomes me to be + grateful to Heaven for the good He has sent me by the means of your + ladyship. David, the man after God's own heart, did wash and eat bread + when his beloved child was removed—mine is restored to me, and shall + I not show gratitude under a blessing, when he showed resignation under an + affliction? Madam, I will wait on your gracious invitation with + acceptance; and such of my friends with whom I may possess influence, and + whose presence your ladyship may desire, shall accompany me to the + festivity, that our Israel may be as one people." + </p> + <p> + Having spoken these words with an aspect which belonged more to a martyr + than to a guest bidden to a festival, and having kissed, and solemnly + blessed his little girl, Major Bridgenorth took his departure for + Moultrassie Hall. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0003" id="link2HCH0003"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER III + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Here's neither want of appetite nor mouths; + Pray Heaven we be not scant of meat or mirth! + —OLD PLAY. +</pre> + <p> + Even upon ordinary occasions, and where means were ample, a great + entertainment in those days was not such a sinecure as in modern times, + when the lady who presides has but to intimate to her menials the day and + hour when she wills it to take place. At that simple period, the lady was + expected to enter deeply into the arrangement and provision of the whole + affair; and from a little gallery, which communicated with her own private + apartment, and looked down upon the kitchen, her shrill voice was to be + heard, from time to time, like that of the warning spirit in a tempest, + rising above the clash of pots and stewpans—the creaking spits—the + clattering of marrowbones and cleavers—the scolding of cooks—and + all the other various kinds of din which form an accompaniment to dressing + a large dinner. + </p> + <p> + But all this toil and anxiety was more than doubled in the case of the + approaching feast at Martindale Castle, where the presiding Genius of the + festivity was scarce provided with adequate means to carry her hospitable + purpose into effect. The tyrannical conduct of husbands, in such cases, is + universal; and I scarce know one householder of my acquaintance who has + not, on some ill-omened and most inconvenient season, announced suddenly + to his innocent helpmate, that he had invited + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "Some odious Major Rock, + To drop in at six o'clock." +</pre> + <p> + to the great discomposure of the lady, and the discredit, perhaps, of her + domestic arrangements. + </p> + <p> + Peveril of the Peak was still more thoughtless; for he had directed his + lady to invite the whole honest men of the neighbourhood to make good + cheer at Martindale Castle, in honour of the blessed Restoration of his + most sacred Majesty, without precisely explaining where the provisions + were to come from. The deer-park had lain waste ever since the siege; the + dovecot could do little to furnish forth such an entertainment; the + fishponds, it is true, were well provided (which the neighbouring + Presbyterians noted as a suspicious circumstance); and game was to be had + for the shooting, upon the extensive heaths and hills of Derbyshire. But + these were but the secondary parts of a banquet; and the house-steward and + bailiff, Lady Peveril's only coadjutors and counsellors, could not agree + how the butcher-meat—the most substantial part, or, as it were, the + main body of the entertainment—was to be supplied. The house-steward + threatened the sacrifice of a fine yoke of young bullocks, which the + bailiff, who pleaded the necessity of their agricultural services, + tenaciously resisted; and Lady Peveril's good and dutiful nature did not + prevent her from making some impatient reflections on the want of + consideration of her absent Knight, who had thus thoughtlessly placed her + in so embarrassing a situation. + </p> + <p> + These reflections were scarcely just, if a man is only responsible for + such resolutions as he adopts when he is fully master of himself. Sir + Geoffrey's loyalty, like that of many persons in his situation, had, by + dint of hopes and fears, victories and defeats, struggles and sufferings, + all arising out of the same moving cause, and turning, as it were, on the + same pivot, acquired the character of an intense and enthusiastic passion; + and the singular and surprising change of fortune, by which his highest + wishes were not only gratified, but far exceeded, occasioned for some time + a kind of intoxication of loyal rapture which seemed to pervade the whole + kingdom. Sir Geoffrey had seen Charles and his brothers, and had been + received by the merry monarch with that graceful, and at the same time + frank urbanity, by which he conciliated all who approached him; the + Knight's services and merits had been fully acknowledged, and recompense + had been hinted at, if not expressly promised. Was it for Peveril of the + Peak, in the jubilee of his spirits, to consider how his wife was to find + beef and mutton to feast his neighbours? + </p> + <p> + Luckily, however, for the embarrassed lady, there existed some one who had + composure of mind sufficient to foresee this difficulty. Just as she had + made up her mind, very reluctantly, to become debtor to Major Bridgenorth + for the sum necessary to carry her husband's commands into effect, and + whilst she was bitterly regretting this departure from the strictness of + her usual economy, the steward, who, by-the-bye, had not been absolutely + sober since the news of the King's landing at Dover, burst into the + apartment, snapping his fingers, and showing more marks of delight than + was quite consistent with the dignity of my lady's large parlour. + </p> + <p> + "What means this, Whitaker?" said the lady, somewhat peevishly; for she + was interrupted in the commencement of a letter to her neighbour on the + unpleasant business of the proposed loan,—"Is it to be always thus + with you?—Are you dreaming?" + </p> + <p> + "A vision of good omen, I trust," said the steward, with a triumphant + flourish of the hand; "far better than Pharaoh's, though, like his, it be + of fat kine." + </p> + <p> + "I prithee be plain, man," said the lady, "or fetch some one who can speak + to purpose." + </p> + <p> + "Why, odds-my-life, madam," said the steward, "mine errand can speak for + itself. Do you not hear them low? Do you not hear them bleat? A yoke of + fat oxen, and half a score prime wethers. The Castle is victualled for + this bout, let them storm when they will; and Gatherill may have his d—d + mains ploughed to the boot." + </p> + <p> + The lady, without farther questioning her elated domestic, rose and went + to the window, where she certainly beheld the oxen and sheep which had + given rise to Whitaker's exultation. "Whence come they?" said she, in some + surprise. + </p> + <p> + "Let them construe that who can," answered Whitaker; "the fellow who drove + them was a west-country man, and only said they came from a friend to help + to furnish out your ladyship's entertainment; the man would not stay to + drink—I am sorry he would not stay to drink—I crave your + ladyship's pardon for not keeping him by the ears to drink—it was + not my fault." + </p> + <p> + "That I'll be sworn it was not," said the lady. + </p> + <p> + "Nay, madam, by G—, I assure you it was not," said the zealous + steward; "for, rather than the Castle should lose credit, I drank his + health myself in double ale, though I had had my morning draught already. + I tell you the naked truth, my lady, by G—!" + </p> + <p> + "It was no great compulsion, I suppose," said the lady; "but, Whitaker, + suppose you should show your joy on such occasions, by drinking and + swearing a little less, rather than a little more, would it not be as + well, think you?" + </p> + <p> + "I crave your ladyship's pardon," said Whitaker, with much reverence; "I + hope I know my place. I am your ladyship's poor servant; and I know it + does not become me to drink and swear like your ladyship—that is, + like his honour, Sir Geoffrey, I would say. But I pray you, if I am not to + drink and swear after my degree, how are men to know Peveril of the Peak's + steward,—and I may say butler too, since I have had the keys of the + cellar ever since old Spigots was shot dead on the northwest turret, with + a black jack in his hand,—I say, how is an old Cavalier like me to + be known from those cuckoldly Roundheads that do nothing but fast and + pray, if we are not to drink and swear according to our degree?" + </p> + <p> + The lady was silent, for she well knew speech availed nothing; and, after + a moment's pause, proceeded to intimate to the steward that she would have + the persons, whose names were marked in a written paper, which she + delivered to him, invited to the approaching banquet. + </p> + <p> + Whitaker, instead of receiving the list with the mute acquiescence of a + modern Major Domo, carried it into the recess of one of the windows, and, + adjusting his spectacles, began to read it to himself. The first names, + being those of distinguished Cavalier families in the neighbourhood, he + muttered over in a tone of approbation—paused and pshawed at that of + Bridgenorth—yet acquiesced, with the observation, "But he is a good + neighbour, so it may pass for once." But when he read the name and surname + of Nehemiah Solsgrace, the Presbyterian parson, Whitaker's patience + altogether forsook him; and he declared he would as soon throw himself + into Eldon-hole,[*] as consent that the intrusive old puritan howlet, who + had usurped the pulpit of a sound orthodox divine, should ever darken the + gates of Martindale Castle by any message or mediation of his. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +[*] A chasm in the earth supposed to be unfathomable, one of the + wonders of the Peak. +</pre> + <p> + "The false crop-eared hypocrites," cried he, with a hearty oath, "have had + their turn of the good weather. The sun is on our side of the hedge now, + and we will pay off old scores, as sure as my name is Richard Whitaker." + </p> + <p> + "You presume on your long services, Whitaker, and on your master's + absence, or you had not dared to use me thus," said the lady. + </p> + <p> + The unwonted agitation of her voice attracted the attention of the + refractory steward, notwithstanding his present state of elevation; but he + no sooner saw that her eye glistened, and her cheek reddened, than his + obstinacy was at once subdued. + </p> + <p> + "A murrain on me," he said, "but I have made my lady angry in good + earnest! and that is an unwonted sight for to see.—I crave your + pardon, my lady! It was not poor Dick Whitaker disputed your honourable + commands, but only that second draught of double ale. We have put a double + stroke of malt to it, as your ladyship well knows, ever since the happy + Restoration. To be sure I hate a fanatic as I do the cloven foot of Satan; + but then your honourable ladyship hath a right to invite Satan himself, + cloven foot and all, to Martindale Castle; and to send me to hell's gate + with a billet of invitation—and so your will shall be done." + </p> + <p> + The invitations were sent round accordingly, in all due form; and one of + the bullocks was sent down to be roasted whole at the market-place of a + little village called Martindale-Moultrassie, which stood considerably to + the eastward both of the Castle and Hall, from which it took its double + name, at about an equal distance from both; so that, suppose a line drawn + from the one manor-house to the other, to be the base of a triangle, the + village would have occupied the salient angle. As the said village, since + the late transference of a part of Peveril's property, belonged to Sir + Geoffrey and to Bridgenorth in nearly equal portions, the lady judged it + not proper to dispute the right of the latter to add some hogsheads of + beer to the popular festivity. + </p> + <p> + In the meanwhile, she could not but suspect the Major of being the unknown + friend who had relieved her from the dilemma arising from the want of + provisions; and she esteemed herself happy when a visit from him, on the + day preceding the proposed entertainment, gave her, as she thought, an + opportunity of expressing her gratitude. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0004" id="link2HCH0004"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IV + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + No, sir—I will not pledge—I'm one of those + Who think good wine needs neither bush nor preface + To make it welcome. If you doubt my word, + Fill the quart-cup, and see if I will choke on't. + —OLD PLAY. +</pre> + <p> + There was a serious gravity of expression in the disclamation with which + Major Bridgenorth replied to the thanks tendered to him by Lady Peveril, + for the supply of provisions which had reached her Castle so opportunely. + He seemed first not to be aware what she alluded to; and, when she + explained the circumstance, he protested so seriously that he had no share + in the benefit conferred, that Lady Peveril was compelled to believe him, + the rather that, being a man of plain downright character, affecting no + refined delicacy of sentiment, and practising almost a quaker-like + sincerity of expression, it would have been much contrary to his general + character to have made such a disavowal, unless it were founded in truth. + </p> + <p> + "My present visit to you, madam," said he, "had indeed some reference to + the festivity of to-morrow." Lady Peveril listened, but as her visitor + seemed to find some difficulty in expressing himself, she was compelled to + ask an explanation. "Madam," said the Major, "you are not perhaps entirely + ignorant that the more tender-conscienced among us have scruples at + certain practices, so general amongst your people at times of rejoicing, + that you may be said to insist upon them as articles of faith, or at least + greatly to resent their omission." + </p> + <p> + "I trust, Master Bridgenorth," said the Lady Peveril, not fully + comprehending the drift of his discourse, "that we shall, as your + entertainers, carefully avoid all allusions or reproaches founded on past + misunderstanding." + </p> + <p> + "We would expect no less, madam, from your candour and courtesy," said + Bridgenorth; "but I perceive you do not fully understand me. To be plain, + then, I allude to the fashion of drinking healths, and pledging each other + in draughts of strong liquor, which most among us consider as a + superfluous and sinful provoking of each other to debauchery, and the + excessive use of strong drink; and which, besides, if derived, as learned + divines have supposed, from the custom of the blinded Pagans, who made + libations and invoked idols when they drank, may be justly said to have + something in it heathenish, and allied to demon-worship." + </p> + <p> + The lady had already hastily considered all the topics which were likely + to introduce discord into the proposed festivity; but this very + ridiculous, yet fatal discrepancy, betwixt the manners of the parties on + convivial occasions, had entirely escaped her. She endeavoured to soothe + the objecting party, whose brows were knit like one who had fixed an + opinion by which he was determined to abide. + </p> + <p> + "I grant," she said, "my good neighbour, that this custom is at least + idle, and may be prejudicial if it leads to excess in the use of liquor, + which is apt enough to take place without such conversation. But I think, + when it hath not this consequence, it is a thing indifferent, affords a + unanimous mode of expressing our good wishes to our friends, and our loyal + duty to our sovereign; and, without meaning to put any force upon the + inclination of those who believe otherwise, I cannot see how I can deny my + guests and friends the privilege of drinking a health to the King, or to + my husband, after the old English fashion." + </p> + <p> + "My lady," said the Major, "if the age of fashion were to command it, + Popery is one of the oldest English fashions that I have heard of; but it + is our happiness that we are not benighted like our fathers, and therefore + we must act according to the light that is in us, and not after their + darkness. I had myself the honour to attend the Lord-Keeper Whitelocke, + when, at the table of the Chamberlain of the kingdom of Sweden, he did + positively refuse to pledge the health of his Queen, Christina, thereby + giving great offence, and putting in peril the whole purpose of that + voyage; which it is not to be thought so wise a man would have done, but + that he held such compliance a thing not merely indifferent, but rather + sinful and damnable." + </p> + <p> + "With all respect to Whitelocke," said the Lady Peveril, "I continue of my + own opinion, though, Heaven knows, I am no friend to riot or wassail. I + would fain accommodate myself to your scruples, and will discourage all + other pledges; but surely those of the King and of Peveril of the Peak may + be permitted?" + </p> + <p> + "I dare not," answered Bridgenorth, "lay even the ninety-ninth part of a + grain of incense upon an altar erected to Satan." + </p> + <p> + "How, sir!" said the lady; "do you bring Satan into comparison with our + master King Charles, and with my noble lord and husband?" + </p> + <p> + "Pardon me, madam," answered Bridgenorth, "I have no such thoughts—indeed + they would ill become me. I do wish the King's health and Sir Geoffrey's + devoutly, and I will pray for both. But I see not what good it should do + their health if I should prejudice my own by quaffing pledges out of quart + flagons." + </p> + <p> + "Since we cannot agree upon this matter," said Lady Peveril, "we must find + some resource by which to offend those of neither party. Suppose you + winked at our friends drinking these pledges, and we should connive at + your sitting still?" + </p> + <p> + But neither would this composition satisfy Bridgenorth, who was of + opinion, as he expressed himself, that it would be holding a candle to + Beelzebub. In fact, his temper, naturally stubborn, was at present + rendered much more so by a previous conference with his preacher, who, + though a very good man in the main, was particularly and illiberally + tenacious of the petty distinctions which his sect adopted; and while he + thought with considerable apprehension on the accession of power which + Popery, Prelacy, and Peveril of the Peak, were like to acquire by the late + Revolution, became naturally anxious to put his flock on their guard, and + prevent their being kidnapped by the wolf. He disliked extremely that + Major Bridgenorth, indisputably the head of the Presbyterian interest in + that neighbourhood, should have given his only daughter to be, as he + termed it, nursed by a Canaanitish woman; and he told him plainly that he + liked not this going to feast in the high places with the uncircumcised in + heart, and looked on the whole conviviality only as a making-merry in the + house of Tirzah. + </p> + <p> + Upon receiving this rebuke from his pastor, Bridgenorth began to suspect + he might have been partly wrong in the readiness which, in his first + ardour of gratitude, he had shown to enter into intimate intercourse with + the Castle of Martindale; but he was too proud to avow this to the + preacher, and it was not till after a considerable debate betwixt them, + that it was mutually agreed their presence at the entertainment should + depend upon the condition, that no healths or pledges should be given in + their presence. Bridgenorth, therefore, as the delegate and representative + of his party, was bound to stand firm against all entreaty, and the lady + became greatly embarrassed. She now regretted sincerely that her + well-intended invitation had ever been given, for she foresaw that its + rejection was to awaken all former subjects of quarrel, and perhaps to + lead to new violences amongst people who had not many years since been + engaged in civil war. To yield up the disputed point to the Presbyterians, + would have been to offend the Cavalier party, and Sir Geoffrey in + particular, in the most mortal degree; for they made it as firm a point of + honour to give healths, and compel others to pledge them, as the Puritans + made it a deep article of religion to refuse both. At length the lady + changed the discourse, introduced that of Major Bridgenorth's child, + caused it to be sent for, and put into his arms. The mother's stratagem + took effect; for, though the parliamentary major stood firm, the father, + as in the case of the Governor of Tilbury, was softened, and he agreed + that his friends should accept a compromise. This was, that the major + himself, the reverend divine, and such of their friends as held strict + Puritan tenets, should form a separate party in the Large Parlour, while + the Hall should be occupied by the jovial Cavaliers; and that each party + should regulate their potations after their own conscience, or after their + own fashion. + </p> + <p> + Major Bridgenorth himself seemed greatly relieved after this important + matter had been settled. He had held it matter of conscience to be + stubborn in maintaining his own opinion, but was heartily glad when he + escaped from the apparently inevitable necessity of affronting Lady + Peveril by the refusal of her invitation. He remained longer than usual, + and spoke and smiled more than was his custom. His first care on his + return was to announce to the clergyman and his congregation the + compromise which he had made, and this not as a matter for deliberation, + but one upon which he had already resolved; and such was his authority + among them, that though the preacher longed to pronounce a separation of + the parties, and to exclaim—"To your tents, O Israel!" he did not + see the chance of being seconded by so many, as would make it worth while + to disturb the unanimous acquiescence in their delegate's proposal. + </p> + <p> + Nevertheless, each party being put upon the alert by the consequences of + Major Bridgenorth's embassy, so many points of doubt and delicate + discussion were started in succession, that the Lady Peveril, the only + person, perhaps, who was desirous of achieving an effectual reconciliation + between them, incurred, in reward for her good intentions, the censure of + both factions, and had much reason to regret her well-meant project of + bringing the Capulets and Montagues of Derbyshire together on the same + occasion of public festivity. + </p> + <p> + As it was now settled that the guests were to form two different parties, + it became not only a subject of dispute betwixt themselves, which should + be first admitted within the Castle of Martindale, but matter of serious + apprehension to Lady Peveril and Major Bridgenorth, lest, if they were to + approach by the same avenue and entrance, a quarrel might take place + betwixt them, and proceed to extremities, even before they reached the + place of entertainment. The lady believed she had discovered an admirable + expedient for preventing the possibility of such interference, by + directing that the Cavaliers should be admitted by the principal entrance, + while the Roundheads should enter the Castle through a great breach which + had been made in the course of the siege, and across which there had been + made a sort of by-path to drive the cattle down to their pasture in the + wood. By this contrivance the Lady Peveril imagined she had altogether + avoided the various risks which might occur from two such parties + encountering each other, and disputing for precedence. Several other + circumstances of less importance were adjusted at the same time, and + apparently so much to the satisfaction of the Presbyterian teacher, that, + in a long lecture on the subject of the Marriage Garment, he was at the + pains to explain to his hearers, that outward apparel was not alone meant + by that scriptural expression, but also a suitable frame of mind for + enjoyment of peaceful festivity; and therefore he exhorted the brethren, + that whatever might be the errors of the poor blinded malignants, with + whom they were in some sort to eat and drink upon the morrow they ought + not on this occasion to show any evil will against them, lest they should + therein become troublers of the peace of Israel. + </p> + <p> + Honest Doctor Dummerar, the elected Episcopal Vicar of Martindale <i>cum</i> + Moultrassie, preached to the Cavaliers on the same subject. He had served + the cure before the breaking out of the rebellion, and was in high favour + with Sir Geoffrey, not merely on account of his sound orthodoxy and deep + learning, but his exquisite skill in playing at bowls, and his facetious + conversation over a pipe and tankard of October. For these latter + accomplishments, the Doctor had the honour to be recorded by old Century + White amongst the roll of lewd, incompetent, profligate clergymen of the + Church of England, whom he denounced to God and man, on account chiefly of + the heinous sin of playing at games of skill and chance, and of + occasionally joining in the social meetings of their parishioners. When + the King's party began to lose ground, Doctor Dummerar left his vicarage, + and, betaking himself to the camp, showed upon several occasions, when + acting as chaplain to Sir Geoffrey Peveril's regiment, that his portly + bodily presence included a stout and masculine heart. When all was lost, + and he himself, with most other loyal divines, was deprived of his living, + he made such shift as he could; now lurking in the garrets of old friends + in the University, who shared with him, and such as him, the slender means + of livelihood which the evil times had left them; and now lying hid in the + houses of the oppressed and sequestered gentry, who respected at once his + character and sufferings. When the Restoration took place, Doctor Dummerar + emerged from some one of his hiding-places, and hied him to Martindale + Castle, to enjoy the triumph inseparable from this happy change. + </p> + <p> + His appearance at the Castle in his full clerical dress, and the warm + reception which he received from the neighbouring gentry, added not a + little to the alarm which was gradually extending itself through the party + which were so lately the uppermost. It is true, Doctor Dummerar framed + (honest worthy man) no extravagant views of elevation or preferment; but + the probability of his being replaced in the living, from which he had + been expelled under very flimsy pretences, inferred a severe blow to the + Presbyterian divine, who could not be considered otherwise than as an + intruder. The interest of the two preachers, therefore, as well as the + sentiments of their flocks, were at direct variance; and here was another + fatal objection in the way of Lady Peveril's scheme of a general and + comprehensive healing ordinance. + </p> + <p> + Nevertheless, as we have already hinted, Doctor Dummerar behaved as + handsomely upon the occasion as the Presbyterian incumbent had done. It is + true, that in a sermon which he preached in the Castle hall to several of + the most distinguished Cavalier families, besides a world of boys from the + village, who went to see the novel circumstance of a parson in a cassock + and surplice, he went at great length into the foulness of the various + crimes committed by the rebellious party during the late evil times, and + greatly magnified the merciful and peaceful nature of the honourable Lady + of the Manor, who condescended to look upon, or receive into her house in + the way of friendship and hospitality, men holding the principles which + had led to the murder of the King—the slaying and despoiling his + loyal subjects—and the plundering and breaking down of the Church of + God. But then he wiped all this handsomely up again, with the observation, + that since it was the will of their gracious and newly-restored Sovereign, + and the pleasure of the worshipful Lady Peveril, that this contumacious + and rebellious race should be, for a time, forborne by their faithful + subjects, it would be highly proper that all the loyal liegemen should, + for the present, eschew subjects of dissension or quarrel with these sons + of Shimei; which lesson of patience he enforced by the comfortable + assurance, that they could not long abstain from their old rebellious + practices; in which case, the Royalists would stand exculpated before God + and man, in extirpating them from the face of the earth. + </p> + <p> + The close observers of the remarkable passages of the times from which we + draw the events of our history, have left it upon record, that these two + several sermons, much contrary, doubtless, to the intention of the worthy + divines by whom they were delivered, had a greater effect in exasperating, + than in composing, the disputes betwixt the two factions. Under such evil + auspices, and with corresponding forebodings on the mind of Lady Peveril, + the day of festivity at length arrived. + </p> + <p> + By different routes, and forming each a sort of procession, as if the + adherents of each party were desirous of exhibiting its strength and + numbers, the two several factions approached Martindale Castle; and so + distinct did they appear in dress, aspect, and manners, that it seemed as + if the revellers of a bridal party, and the sad attendants upon a funeral + solemnity, were moving towards the same point from different quarters. + </p> + <p> + The puritanical party was by far the fewer in numbers, for which two + excellent reasons might be given. In the first place, they had enjoyed + power for several years, and, of course, became unpopular among the common + people, never at any time attached to those, who, being in the immediate + possession of authority, are often obliged to employ it in controlling + their humours. Besides, the country people of England had, and still have, + an animated attachment to field sports, and a natural unrestrained + joviality of disposition, which rendered them impatient under the severe + discipline of the fanatical preachers; while they were not less naturally + discontented with the military despotism of Cromwell's Major-Generals. + Secondly, the people were fickle as usual, and the return of the King had + novelty in it, and was therefore popular. The side of the Puritans was + also deserted at this period by a numerous class of more thinking and + prudential persons, who never forsook them till they became unfortunate. + These sagacious personages were called in that age the Waiters upon + Providence, and deemed it a high delinquency towards Heaven if they + afforded countenance to any cause longer than it was favoured by fortune. + </p> + <p> + But, though thus forsaken by the fickle and the selfish, a solemn + enthusiasm, a stern and determined depth of principle, a confidence in the + sincerity of their own motives, and the manly English pride which inclined + them to cling to their former opinions, like the traveller in the fable to + his cloak, the more strongly that the tempest blew around them, detained + in the ranks of the Puritans many, who, if no longer formidable from + numbers, were still so from their character. They consisted chiefly of the + middling gentry, with others whom industry or successful speculations in + commerce or in mining had raised into eminence—the persons who feel + most umbrage from the overshadowing aristocracy, and are usually the most + vehement in defence of what they hold to be their rights. Their dress was + in general studiously simple and unostentatious, or only remarkable by the + contradictory affectation of extreme simplicity or carelessness. The dark + colour of their cloaks, varying from absolute black to what was called + sad-coloured—their steeple-crowned hats, with their broad shadowy + brims—their long swords, suspended by a simple strap around the + loins, without shoulder-belt, sword-knot, plate, buckles, or any of the + other decorations with which the Cavaliers loved to adorn their trusty + rapiers,—the shortness of their hair, which made their ears appear + of disproportioned size,—above all, the stern and gloomy gravity of + their looks, announced their belonging to that class of enthusiasts, who, + resolute and undismayed, had cast down the former fabric of government, + and who now regarded with somewhat more than suspicion, that which had + been so unexpectedly substituted in its stead. There was gloom in their + countenances; but it was not that of dejection, far less of despair. They + looked like veterans after a defeat, which may have checked their career + and wounded their pride, but has left their courage undiminished. + </p> + <p> + The melancholy, now become habitual, which overcast Major Bridgenorth's + countenance, well qualified him to act as the chief of the group who now + advanced from the village. When they reached the point by which they were + first to turn aside into the wood which surrounded the Castle, they felt a + momentary impression of degradation, as if they were yielding the high + road to their old and oft-defeated enemies the Cavaliers. When they began + to ascend the winding path, which had been the daily passage of the + cattle, the opening of the wooded glade gave them a view of the Castle + ditch, half choked with the rubbish of the breach, and of the breach + itself, which was made at the angle of a large square flanking-tower, + one-half of which had been battered into ruins, while the other fragment + remained in a state strangely shattered and precarious, and seemed to be + tottering above the huge aperture in the wall. A stern still smile was + exchanged among the Puritans, as the sight reminded them of the victories + of former days. Holdfast Clegg, a millwright of Derby, who had been + himself active at the siege, pointed to the breach, and said, with a grim + smile to Mr. Solsgrace, "I little thought, that when my own hand helped to + level the cannon which Oliver pointed against yon tower, we should have + been obliged to climb like foxes up the very walls which we won by our bow + and by our spear. Methought these malignants had then enough of shutting + their gates and making high their horn against us." + </p> + <p> + "Be patient, my brother," said Solsgrace; "be patient, and let not thy + soul be disquieted. We enter not this high place dishonourably, seeing we + ascend by the gate which the Lord opened to the godly." + </p> + <p> + The words of the pastor were like a spark to gunpowder. The countenances + of the mournful retinue suddenly expanded, and, accepting what had fallen + from him as an omen and a light from heaven how they were to interpret + their present situation, they uplifted, with one consent, one of the + triumphant songs in which the Israelites celebrated the victories which + had been vouchsafed to them over the heathen inhabitants of the Promised + Land:— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "Let God arise, and then His foes + Shall turn themselves to flight, + His enemies for fear shall run, + And scatter out of sight; + + And as wax melts before the fire, + And wind blows smoke away, + So in the presence of the Lord, + The wicked shall decay. + + God's army twenty thousand is, + Of angels bright and strong, + The Lord also in Sinai + Is present them among. + + Thou didst, O Lord, ascend on high, + And captive led'st them all, + Who, in times past, Thy chosen flock + In bondage did enthral." +</pre> + <p> + These sounds of devotional triumph reached the joyous band of the + Cavaliers, who, decked in whatever pomp their repeated misfortunes and + impoverishment had left them, were moving towards the same point, though + by a different road, and were filling the principal avenue to the Castle, + with tiptoe mirth and revelry. The two parties were strongly contrasted; + for, during that period of civil dissension, the manners of the different + factions distinguished them as completely as separate uniforms might have + done. If the Puritan was affectedly plain in his dress, and ridiculously + precise in his manners, the Cavalier often carried his love of ornament + into tawdry finery, and his contempt of hypocrisy into licentious + profligacy. Gay gallant fellows, young and old, thronged together towards + the ancient Castle, with general and joyous manifestation of those + spirits, which, as they had been buoyant enough to support their owners + during the worst of times, as they termed Oliver's usurpation, were now so + inflated as to transport them nearly beyond the reach of sober reason. + Feathers waved, lace glittered, spears jingled, steeds caracoled; and here + and there a petronel, or pistol, was fired off by some one, who found his + own natural talents for making a noise inadequate to the dignity of the + occasion. Boys—for, as we said before, the rabble were with the + uppermost party, as usual—halloo'd and whooped, "Down with the + Rump," and "Fie upon Oliver!" Musical instruments, of as many different + fashions as were then in use, played all at once, and without any regard + to each other's tune; and the glee of the occasion, while it reconciled + the pride of the high-born of the party to fraternise with the general + rout, derived an additional zest from the conscious triumph, that their + exultation was heard by their neighbours, the crestfallen Roundheads. + </p> + <p> + When the loud and sonorous swell of the psalm-tune, multiplied by all the + echoes of the cliffs and ruinous halls, came full upon their ear, as if to + warn them how little they were to reckon upon the depression of their + adversaries, at first it was answered with a scornful laugh, raised to as + much height as the scoffers' lungs would permit, in order that it might + carry to the psalmodists the contempt of their auditors; but this was a + forced exertion of party spleen. There is something in melancholy feelings + more natural to an imperfect and suffering state than in those of gaiety, + and when they are brought into collision, the former seldom fail to + triumph. If a funeral-train and wedding-procession were to meet + unexpectedly, it will readily be allowed that the mirth of the last would + be speedily merged in the gloom of the others. But the Cavaliers, + moreover, had sympathies of a different kind. The psalm-tune, which now + came rolling on their ear, had been heard too often, and upon too many + occasions had preceded victory gained over the malignants, to permit them, + even in their triumph, to hear it without emotion. There was a sort of + pause, of which the party themselves seemed rather ashamed, until the + silence was broken by the stout old knight, Sir Jasper Cranbourne, whose + gallantry was so universally acknowledged, that he could afford, if we may + use such an expression, to confess emotions, which men whose courage was + in any respect liable to suspicion, would have thought it imprudent to + acknowledge. + </p> + <p> + "Adad," said the old Knight, "may I never taste claret again, if that is + not the very tune with which the prick-eared villains began their onset at + Wiggan Lane, where they trowled us down like so many ninepins! Faith, + neighbours, to say truth, and shame the devil, I did not like the sound of + it above half." + </p> + <p> + "If I thought the round-headed rogues did it in scorn of us," said Dick + Wildblood of the Dale, "I would cudgel their psalmody out of their + peasantly throats with this very truncheon;" a motion which, being + seconded by old Roger Raine, the drunken tapster of the Peveril Arms in + the village, might have brought on a general battle, but that Sir Jasper + forbade the feud. + </p> + <p> + "We'll have no ranting, Dick," said the old Knight to the young Franklin; + "adad, man, we'll have none, for three reasons: first, because it would be + ungentle to Lady Peveril; then, because it is against the King's peace; + and, lastly, Dick, because if we did set on the psalm-singing knaves, thou + mightest come by the worst, my boy, as has chanced to thee before." + </p> + <p> + "Who, I! Sir Jasper?" answered Dick—"I come by the worst!—I'll + be d—d if it ever happened but in that accursed lane, where we had + no more flank, front, or rear, than if we had been so many herrings in a + barrel." + </p> + <p> + "That was the reason, I fancy," answered Sir Jasper, "that you, to mend + the matter, scrambled into the hedge, and stuck there, horse and man, till + I beat thee through it with my leading-staff; and then, instead of + charging to the front, you went right-about, and away as fast as your feet + would carry you." + </p> + <p> + This reminiscence produced a laugh at Dick's expense, who was known, or at + least suspected, to have more tongue in his head than mettle in his bosom. + And this sort of rallying on the part of the Knight having fortunately + abated the resentment which had begun to awaken in the breasts of the + royalist cavalcade, farther cause for offence was removed, by the sudden + ceasing of the sounds which they had been disposed to interpret into those + of premeditated insult. + </p> + <p> + This was owing to the arrival of the Puritans at the bottom of the large + and wide breach, which had been formerly made in the wall of the Castle by + their victorious cannon. The sight of its gaping heaps of rubbish, and + disjointed masses of building, up which slowly winded a narrow and steep + path, such as is made amongst ancient ruins by the rare passage of those + who occasionally visit them, was calculated, when contrasted with the grey + and solid massiveness of the towers and curtains which yet stood + uninjured, to remind them of their victory over the stronghold of their + enemies, and how they had bound nobles and princes with fetters of iron. + </p> + <p> + But feelings more suitable to the purpose of their visit to Martindale + Castle, were awakened in the bosoms even of these stern sectaries, when + the Lady of the Castle, still in the very prime of beauty and of + womanhood, appeared at the top of the breach with her principal female + attendants, to receive her guests with the honour and courtesy becoming + her invitation. She had laid aside the black dress which had been her sole + attire for several years, and was arrayed with a splendour not unbecoming + her high descent and quality. Jewels, indeed, she had none; but her long + and dark hair was surmounted with a chaplet made of oak leaves, + interspersed with lilies; the former being the emblem of the King's + preservation in the Royal Oak, and the latter of his happy Restoration. + What rendered her presence still more interesting to those who looked on + her, was the presence of the two children whom she held in either hand; + one of whom was well known to them all to be the child of their leader, + Major Bridgenorth, who had been restored to life and health by the almost + maternal care of the Lady Peveril. + </p> + <p> + If even the inferior persons of the party felt the healing influence of + her presence, thus accompanied, poor Bridgenorth was almost overwhelmed + with it. The strictness of his cast and manners permitted him not to sink + on his knee, and kiss the hand which held his little orphan; but the + deepness of his obeisance—the faltering tremor of his voice—and + the glistening of his eye, showed a grateful respect for the lady whom he + addressed, deeper and more reverential than could have been expressed even + by Persian prostration. A few courteous and mild words, expressive of the + pleasure she found in once more seeing her neighbours as her friends—a + few kind inquiries, addressed to the principal individuals among her + guests, concerning their families and connections, completed her triumph + over angry thoughts and dangerous recollections, and disposed men's bosoms + to sympathise with the purposes of the meeting. + </p> + <p> + Even Solsgrace himself, although imagining himself bound by his office and + duty to watch over and counteract the wiles of the "Amalekitish woman," + did not escape the sympathetic infection; being so much struck with the + marks of peace and good-will exhibited by Lady Peveril, that he + immediately raised the psalm— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "O what a happy thing it is, + And joyful, for to see + Brethren to dwell together in + Friendship and unity!" +</pre> + <p> + Accepting this salutation as a mark of courtesy repaid, the Lady Peveril + marshalled in person this party of her guests to the apartment, where + ample good cheer was provided for them; and had even the patience to + remain while Master Nehemiah Solsgrace pronounced a benediction of + portentous length, as an introduction to the banquet. Her presence was in + some measure a restraint on the worthy divine, whose prolusion lasted the + longer, and was the more intricate and embarrassed, that he felt himself + debarred from rounding it off by his usual alliterative petition for + deliverance from Popery, Prelacy, and Peveril of the Peak, which had + become so habitual to him, that, after various attempts to conclude with + some other form of words, he found himself at last obliged to pronounce + the first words of his usual <i>formula</i> aloud, and mutter the rest in + such a manner as not to be intelligible even by those who stood nearest to + him. + </p> + <p> + The minister's silence was followed by all the various sounds which + announce the onset of a hungry company on a well-furnished table; and at + the same time gave the lady an opportunity to leave the apartment, and + look to the accommodation of her other company. She felt, indeed, that it + was high time to do so; and that the royalist guests might be disposed to + misapprehend, or even to resent, the prior attentions which she had + thought it prudent to offer to the Puritans. + </p> + <p> + These apprehensions were not altogether ill-founded. It was in vain that + the steward had displayed the royal standard, with its proud motto of <i>Tandem + Triumphans</i>, on one of the great towers which flanked the main entrance + of the Castle; while, from the other, floated the banner of Peveril of the + Peak, under which many of those who now approached had fought during all + the vicissitudes of civil war. It was in vain he repeated his clamorous + "Welcome, noble Cavaliers! welcome, generous gentlemen!" There was a + slight murmur amongst them, that their welcome ought to have come from the + mouth of the Colonel's lady—not from that of a menial. Sir Jasper + Cranbourne, who had sense as well as spirit and courage, and who was aware + of his fair cousin's motives, having been indeed consulted by her upon all + the arrangements which she had adopted, saw matters were in such a state + that no time ought to be lost in conducting the guests to the banqueting + apartment, where a fortunate diversion from all these topics of rising + discontent might be made, at the expense of the good cheer of all sorts, + which the lady's care had so liberally provided. + </p> + <p> + The stratagem of the old soldier succeeded in its utmost extent. He + assumed the great oaken-chair usually occupied by the steward at his + audits; and Dr. Dummerar having pronounced a brief Latin benediction + (which was not the less esteemed by the hearers that none of them + understood it), Sir Jasper exhorted the company to wet their appetites to + the dinner by a brimming cup to his Majesty's health, filled as high and + as deep as their goblets would permit. In a moment all was bustle, with + the clank of wine-cups and of flagons. In another moment the guests were + on their feet like so many statues, all hushed as death, but with eyes + glancing with expectation, and hands outstretched, which displayed their + loyal brimmers. The voice of Sir Jasper, clear, sonorous, and emphatic, as + the sound of his war-trumpet, announced the health of the restored + Monarch, hastily echoed back by the assemblage, impatient to render it due + homage. Another brief pause was filled by the draining of their cups, and + the mustering breath to join in a shout so loud, that not only the rafters + of the old hall trembled while they echoed it back, but the garlands of + oaken boughs and flowers with which they were decorated, waved wildly, and + rustled as if agitated by a sudden whirlwind. This rite observed, the + company proceeded to assail the good cheer with which the table groaned, + animated as they were to the attack both by mirth and melody, for they + were attended by all the minstrels of the district, who, like the + Episcopal clergy, had been put to silence during the reign of the + self-entitled saints of the Commonwealth. The social occupation of good + eating and drinking, the exchange of pledges betwixt old neighbours who + had been fellow-soldiers in the moment of resistance—fellow-sufferers + in the time of depression and subjugation, and were now partners in the + same general subject of congratulation, soon wiped from their memory the + trifling cause of complaint, which in the minds of some had darkened the + festivity of the day; so that when the Lady Peveril walked into the hall, + accompanied as before with the children and her female attendants, she was + welcomed with the acclamations due to the mistress of the banquet and of + the Castle—the dame of the noble Knight, who had led most of them to + battle with an undaunted and persevering valour, which was worthy of + better success. + </p> + <p> + Her address to them was brief and matronly, yet spoken with so much + feeling as found its way to every bosom. She apologised for the lateness + of her personal welcome, by reminding them that there were then present in + Martindale Castle that day, persons whom recent happy events had converted + from enemies into friends, but on whom the latter character was so + recently imposed, that she dared not neglect with them any point of + ceremonial. But those whom she now addressed, were the best, the dearest + the most faithful friends of her husband's house, to whom and to their + valour Peveril had not only owed those successes, which had given them and + him fame during the late unhappy times, but to whose courage she in + particular had owed the preservation of their leader's life, even when it + could not avert defeat. A word or two of heartfelt authority, completed + all which she had boldness to add, and, bowing gracefully round her, she + lifted a cup to her lips as if to welcome her guests. + </p> + <p> + There still remained, and especially amongst the old Cavaliers of the + period, some glimmering of that spirit which inspired Froissart, when he + declares that a knight hath double courage at need, when animated by the + looks and words of a beautiful and virtuous woman. It was not until the + reign which was commencing at the moment we are treating of, that the + unbounded licence of the age, introducing a general course of profligacy, + degraded the female sex into mere servants of pleasure, and, in so doing, + deprived society of that noble tone of feeling towards the sex, which, + considered as a spur to "raise the clear spirit," is superior to every + other impulse, save those of religion and of patriotism. The beams of the + ancient hall of Martindale Castle instantly rang with a shout louder and + shriller than that at which they had so lately trembled, and the names of + the Knight of the Peak and his lady were proclaimed amid waving of caps + and hats, and universal wishes for their health and happiness. + </p> + <p> + Under these auspices the Lady Peveril glided from the hall, and left free + space for the revelry of the evening. + </p> + <p> + That of the Cavaliers may be easily conceived, since it had the usual + accompaniments of singing, jesting, quaffing of healths, and playing of + tunes, which have in almost every age and quarter of the world been the + accompaniments of festive cheer. The enjoyments of the Puritans were of a + different and less noisy character. They neither sung, jested, heard + music, nor drank healths; and yet they seemed not the less, in their own + phrase, to enjoy the creature-comforts, which the frailty of humanity + rendered grateful to their outward man. Old Whitaker even protested, that, + though much the smaller party in point of numbers, they discussed nearly + as much sack and claret as his own more jovial associates. But those who + considered the steward's prejudices, were inclined to think, that, in + order to produce such a result, he must have thrown in his own + by-drinkings—no inconsiderable item—to the sum total of the + Presbyterian potations. + </p> + <p> + Without adopting such a partial and scandalous report, we shall only say, + that on this occasion, as on most others, the rareness of indulgence + promoted the sense of enjoyment, and that those who made abstinence, or at + least moderation, a point of religious principle, enjoyed their social + meeting the better that such opportunities rarely presented themselves. If + they did not actually drink each other's healths, they at least showed, by + looking and nodding to each other as they raised their glasses, that they + all were sharing the same festive gratification of the appetite, and felt + it enhanced, because it was at the same time enjoyed by their friends and + neighbours. Religion, as it was the principal topic of their thoughts, + became also the chief subject of their conversation, and as they sat + together in small separate knots, they discussed doctrinal and + metaphysical points of belief, balanced the merits of various preachers, + compared the creeds of contending sects, and fortified by scriptural + quotations those which they favoured. Some contests arose in the course of + these debates, which might have proceeded farther than was seemly, but for + the cautious interference of Major Bridgenorth. He suppressed also, in the + very bud, a dispute betwixt Gaffer Hodgeson of Charnelycot and the + Reverend Mr. Solsgrace, upon the tender subject of lay-preaching and + lay-ministering; nor did he think it altogether prudent or decent to + indulge the wishes of some of the warmer enthusiasts of the party, who + felt disposed to make the rest partakers of their gifts in extemporaneous + prayer and exposition. These were absurdities that belonged to the time, + which, however, the Major had sense enough to perceive were unfitted, + whether the offspring of hypocrisy or enthusiasm, for the present time and + place. + </p> + <p> + The Major was also instrumental in breaking up the party at an early and + decorous hour, so that they left the Castle long before their rivals, the + Cavaliers, had reached the springtide of their merriment; an arrangement + which afforded the greatest satisfaction to the lady, who dreaded the + consequences which might not improbably have taken place, had both parties + met at the same period and point of retreat. + </p> + <p> + It was near midnight ere the greater part of the Cavaliers, meaning such + as were able to effect their departure without assistance, withdrew to the + village of Martindale Moultrassie, with the benefit of the broad moon to + prevent the chance of accidents. Their shouts, and the burden of their + roaring chorus of— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "The King shall enjoy his own again!" +</pre> + <p> + were heard with no small pleasure by the lady, heartily glad that the riot + of the day was over without the occurrence of any unpleasing accident. The + rejoicing was not, however, entirely ended; for the elevated Cavaliers, + finding some of the villagers still on foot around a bonfire on the + street, struck merrily in with them—sent to Roger Raine of the + Peveril Arms, the loyal publican whom we have already mentioned, for two + tubs of merry stingo (as it was termed), and lent their own powerful + assistance at the <i>dusting</i> it off to the health of the King and the + loyal General Monk. Their shouts for a long time disturbed, and even + alarmed, the little village; but no enthusiasm is able to withstand for + ever the natural consequences of late hours, and potations pottle-deep. + The tumult of the exulting Royalists at last sunk into silence, and the + moon and the owl were left in undisturbed sovereignty over the old tower + of the village church, which, rising white above a circle of knotty oaks, + was tenanted by the bird, and silvered by the planet. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0005" id="link2HCH0005"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER V + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + 'Twas when they raised, 'mid sap and siege, + The banners of their rightful liege, + At their she-captain's call, + Who, miracle of womankind! + Lent mettle to the meanest hind + That mann'd her castle wall. + —WILLIAM S. ROSE. +</pre> + <p> + On the morning succeeding the feast, the Lady Peveril, fatigued with the + exertions and the apprehensions of the former day, kept her apartment for + two or three hours later than her own active habits, and the matutinal + custom of the time, rendered usual. Meanwhile, Mistress Ellesmere, a + person of great trust in the family, and who assumed much authority in her + mistress's absence, laid her orders upon Deborah, the governante, + immediately to carry the children to their airing in the park, and not to + let any one enter the gilded chamber, which was usually their + sporting-place. Deborah, who often rebelled, and sometimes successfully, + against the deputed authority of Ellesmere, privately resolved that it was + about to rain, and that the gilded chamber was a more suitable place for + the children's exercise than the wet grass of the park on a raw morning. + </p> + <p> + But a woman's brain is sometimes as inconstant as a popular assembly; and + presently after she had voted the morning was like to be rainy, and that + the gilded chamber was the fittest play-room for the children, Mistress + Deborah came to the somewhat inconsistent resolution, that the park was + the fittest place for her own morning walk. It is certain, that during the + unrestrained joviality of the preceding evening, she had danced till + midnight with Lance Outram the park-keeper; but how far the seeing him + just pass the window in his woodland trim, with a feather in his hat, and + a crossbow under his arm, influenced the discrepancy of the opinions + Mistress Deborah formed concerning the weather, we are far from presuming + to guess. It is enough for us, that, so soon as Mistress Ellesmere's back + was turned, Mistress Deborah carried the children into the gilded chamber, + not without a strict charge (for we must do her justice) to Master Julian + to take care of his little wife, Mistress Alice; and then, having taken so + satisfactory a precaution, she herself glided into the park by the + glass-door of the still-room, which was nearly opposite to the great + breach. + </p> + <p> + The gilded chamber in which the children were, by this arrangement, left + to amuse themselves, without better guardianship than what Julian's + manhood afforded, was a large apartment, hung with stamped Spanish + leather, curiously gilded, representing, in a manner now obsolete, but far + from unpleasing, a series of tilts and combats betwixt the Saracens of + Grenada, and the Spaniards under the command of King Ferdinand and Queen + Isabella, during that memorable siege, which was terminated by the + overthrow of the last fragments of the Moorish empire in Spain. + </p> + <p> + The little Julian was careering about the room for the amusement of his + infant friend, as well as his own, mimicking with a reed the menacing + attitude of the Abencerrages and Zegris engaged in the Eastern sport of + hurling the JERID, or javelin; and at times sitting down beside her, and + caressing her into silence and good humour, when the petulant or timid + child chose to become tired of remaining an inactive spectator of his + boisterous sport; when, on a sudden, he observed one of the panelled + compartments of the leather hangings slide apart, so as to show a fair + hand, with its fingers resting upon its edge, prepared, it would seem, to + push it still farther back. Julian was much surprised, and somewhat + frightened, at what he witnessed, for the tales of the nursery had + strongly impressed on his mind the terrors of the invisible world. Yet, + naturally bold and high-spirited, the little champion placed himself + beside his defenceless sister, continuing to brandish his weapon in her + defence, as boldly as he had himself been an Abencerrage of Grenada. + </p> + <p> + The panel, on which his eye was fixed, gradually continued to slide back, + and display more and more the form to which the hand appertained, until, + in the dark aperture which was disclosed, the children saw the figure of a + lady in a mourning dress, past the meridian of life, but whose countenance + still retained traces of great beauty, although the predominant character + both of her features and person was an air of almost royal dignity. After + pausing a moment on the threshold of the portal which she had thus + unexpectedly disclosed, and looking with some surprise at the children, + whom she had not probably observed while engaged with the management of + the panel, the stranger stepped into the apartment, and the panel, upon a + touch of a spring, closed behind her so suddenly, that Julian almost + doubted it had ever been open, and began to apprehend that the whole + apparition had been a delusion. + </p> + <p> + The stately lady, however, advanced to him, and said, "Are not you the + little Peveril?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said the boy, reddening, not altogether without a juvenile feeling + of that rule of chivalry which forbade any one to disown his name, + whatever danger might be annexed to the avowal of it. + </p> + <p> + "Then," said the stately stranger, "go to your mother's room, and tell her + to come instantly to speak with me." + </p> + <p> + "I wo'not," said the little Julian. + </p> + <p> + "How?" said the lady,—"so young and so disobedient?—but you do + but follow the fashion of the time. Why will you not go, my pretty boy, + when I ask it of you as a favour?" + </p> + <p> + "I would go, madam," said the boy, "but"—and he stopped short, still + drawing back as the lady advanced on him, but still holding by the hand + Alice Bridgenorth, who, too young to understand the nature of the + dialogue, clung, trembling, to her companion. + </p> + <p> + The stranger saw his embarrassment, smiled, and remained standing fast, + while she asked the child once more, "What are you afraid of, my brave boy—and + why should you not go to your mother on my errand?" + </p> + <p> + "Because," answered Julian firmly, "if I go, little Alice must stay alone + with you." + </p> + <p> + "You are a gallant fellow," said the lady, "and will not disgrace your + blood, which never left the weak without protection." + </p> + <p> + The boy understood her not, and still gazed with anxious apprehension, + first on her who addressed him, and then upon his little companion, whose + eyes, with the vacant glance of infancy, wandered from the figure of the + lady to that of her companion and protector, and at length, infected by a + portion of the fear which the latter's magnanimous efforts could not + entirely conceal, she flew into Julian's arms, and, clinging to him, + greatly augmented his alarm, and by screaming aloud, rendered it very + difficult for him to avoid the sympathetic fear which impelled him to do + the same. + </p> + <p> + There was something in the manner and bearing of this unexpected inmate + which might justify awe at least, if not fear, when joined to the singular + and mysterious mode in which she had made her appearance. Her dress was + not remarkable, being the hood and female riding attire of the time, such + as was worn by the inferior class of gentlewomen; but her black hair was + very long, and, several locks having escaped from under her hood, hung + down dishevelled on her neck and shoulders. Her eyes were deep black, + keen, and piercing, and her features had something of a foreign + expression. When she spoke, her language was marked by a slight foreign + accent, although, in construction, it was pure English. Her slightest tone + and gesture had the air of one accustomed to command and to be obeyed; the + recollection of which probably suggested to Julian the apology he + afterwards made for being frightened, that he took the stranger for an + "enchanted queen." + </p> + +<div class="fig" style="width:65%;"> + <img src="images/0153m.jpg" alt="0153m " width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <h5> + <a href="images/0153.jpg"><i>Original</i></a> + </h5> + <p> + While the stranger lady and the children thus confronted each other, two + persons entered almost at the same instant, but from different doors, + whose haste showed that they had been alarmed by the screams of the + latter. + </p> + <p> + The first was Major Bridgenorth, whose ears had been alarmed with the + cries of his child, as he entered the hall, which corresponded with what + was called the gilded chamber. His intention had been to remain in the + more public apartment, until the Lady Peveril should make her appearance, + with the good-natured purpose of assuring her that the preceding day of + tumult had passed in every respect agreeably to his friends, and without + any of those alarming consequences which might have been apprehended from + a collision betwixt the parties. But when it is considered how severely he + had been agitated by apprehensions for his child's safety and health, too + well justified by the fate of those who had preceded her, it will not be + thought surprising that the infantine screams of Alice induced him to + break through the barriers of form, and intrude farther into the interior + of the house than a sense of strict propriety might have warranted. + </p> + <p> + He burst into the gilded chamber, therefore, by a side-door and narrow + passage, which communicated betwixt that apartment and the hall, and, + snatching the child up in his arms, endeavoured, by a thousand caresses, + to stifle the screams which burst yet more violently from the little girl, + on beholding herself in the arms of one to whose voice and manner she was, + but for one brief interview, an entire stranger. + </p> + <p> + Of course, Alice's shrieks were redoubled, and seconded by those of Julian + Peveril, who, on the appearance of this second intruder, was frightened + into resignation of every more manly idea of rescue than that which + consisted in invoking assistance at the very top of his lungs. + </p> + <p> + Alarmed by this noise, which in half a minute became very clamorous, Lady + Peveril, with whose apartment the gilded chamber was connected by a + private door of communication opening into her wardrobe, entered on the + scene. The instant she appeared, the little Alice, extricating herself + from the grasp of her father, ran towards <i>her</i> protectress, and when + she had once taken hold of her skirts, not only became silent, but turned + her large blue eyes, in which the tears were still glistening, with a look + of wonder rather than alarm, towards the strange lady. Julian manfully + brandished his reed, a weapon which he had never parted with during the + whole alarm, and stood prepared to assist his mother if there should be + danger in the encounter betwixt her and the stranger. + </p> + <p> + In fact, it might have puzzled an older person to account for the sudden + and confused pause which the Lady Peveril made, as she gazed on her + unexpected guest, as if dubious whether she did, or did not recognise, in + her still beautiful though wasted and emaciated features, a countenance + which she had known well under far different circumstances. + </p> + <p> + The stranger seemed to understand the cause of hesitation, for she said in + that heart-thrilling voice which was peculiarly her own— + </p> + <p> + "Time and misfortune have changed me much, Margaret—that every + mirror tells me—yet methinks, Margaret Stanley might still have + known Charlotte de la Tremouille." + </p> + <p> + The Lady Peveril was little in the custom of giving way to sudden emotion, + but in the present case she threw herself on her knees in a rapture of + mingled joy and grief, and, half embracing those of the stranger, + exclaimed, in broken language— + </p> + <p> + "My kind, my noble benefactress—the princely Countess of Derby—the + royal queen in Man—could I doubt your voice, your features, for a + moment—Oh, forgive, forgive me!" + </p> + <p> + The Countess raised the suppliant kinswoman of her husband's house, with + all the grace of one accustomed from early birth to receive homage and to + grant protection. She kissed the Lady Peveril's forehead, and passed her + hand in a caressing manner over her face as she said— + </p> + <p> + "You too are changed, my fair cousin, but it is a change becomes you, from + a pretty and timid maiden to a sage and comely matron. But my own memory, + which I once held a good one, has failed me strangely, if this gentleman + be Sir Geoffrey Peveril." + </p> + <p> + "A kind and good neighbour only, madam," said Lady Peveril; "Sir Geoffrey + is at Court." + </p> + <p> + "I understood so much," said the Countess of Derby, "when I arrived here + last night." + </p> + <p> + "How, madam!" said Lady Peveril—"Did you arrive at Martindale Castle—at + the house of Margaret Stanley, where you have such right to command, and + did not announce your presence to her?" + </p> + <p> + "Oh, I know you are a dutiful subject, Margaret," answered the Countess, + "though it be in these days a rare character—but it was our + pleasure," she added, with a smile, "to travel incognito—and finding + you engaged in general hospitality, we desired not to disturb you with our + royal presence." + </p> + <p> + "But how and where were you lodged, madam?" said Lady Peveril; "or why + should you have kept secret a visit which would, if made, have augmented + tenfold the happiness of every true heart that rejoiced here yesterday?" + </p> + <p> + "My lodging was well cared for by Ellesmere—your Ellesmere now, as + she was formerly mine—she has acted as quartermaster ere now, you + know, and on a broader scale; you must excuse her—she had my + positive order to lodge me in the most secret part of your Castle"—(here + she pointed to the sliding panel)—"she obeyed orders in that, and I + suppose also in sending you now hither." + </p> + <p> + "Indeed I have not yet seen her," said the lady, "and therefore was + totally ignorant of a visit so joyful, so surprising." + </p> + <p> + "And I," said the Countess, "was equally surprised to find none but these + beautiful children in the apartment where I thought I heard you moving. + Our Ellesmere has become silly—your good-nature has spoiled her—she + has forgotten the discipline she learned under me." + </p> + <p> + "I saw her run through the wood," said the Lady Peveril, after a moment's + recollection, "undoubtedly to seek the person who has charge of the + children, in order to remove them." + </p> + <p> + "Your own darlings, I doubt not," said the Countess, looking at the + children. "Margaret, Providence has blessed you." + </p> + <p> + "That is my son," said the Lady Peveril, pointing to Julian, who stood + devouring their discourse with greedy ear; "the little girl—I may + call mine too." Major Bridgenorth, who had in the meantime again taken up + his infant, and was engaged in caressing it, set it down as the Countess + of Derby spoke, sighed deeply, and walked towards the oriel window. He was + well aware that the ordinary rules of courtesy would have rendered it + proper that he should withdraw entirely, or at least offer to do so; but + he was not a man of ceremonious politeness, and he had a particular + interest in the subjects on which the Countess's discourse was likely to + turn, which induced him to dispense with ceremony. The ladies seemed + indeed scarce to notice his presence. The Countess had now assumed a + chair, and motioned to the Lady Peveril to sit upon a stool which was + placed by her side. "We will have old times once more, though there are + here no roaring of rebel guns to drive you to take refuge at my side, and + almost in my pocket." + </p> + <p> + "I have a gun, madam," said little Julian, "and the park-keeper is to + teach me how to fire it next year." + </p> + <p> + "I will list you for my soldier, then," said the Countess. + </p> + <p> + "Ladies have no soldiers," said the boy, looking wistfully at her. + </p> + <p> + "He has the true masculine contempt of our frail sex, I see," said the + Countess; "it is born with the insolent varlets of mankind, and shows + itself so soon as they are out of their long clothes.—Did Ellesmere + never tell you of Latham House and Charlotte of Derby, my little master?" + </p> + <p> + "A thousand thousand times," said the boy, colouring; "and how the Queen + of Man defended it six weeks against three thousand Roundheads, under + Rogue Harrison the butcher." + </p> + <p> + "It was your mother defended Latham House," said the Countess, "not I, my + little soldier—Hadst thou been there, thou hadst been the best + captain of the three." + </p> + <p> + "Do not say so, madam," said the boy, "for mamma would not touch a gun for + all the universe." + </p> + <p> + "Not I, indeed, Julian," said his mother; "there I was for certain, but as + useless a part of the garrison——" + </p> + <p> + "You forget," said the Countess, "you nursed our hospital, and made lint + for the soldiers' wounds." + </p> + <p> + "But did not papa come to help you?" said Julian. + </p> + <p> + "Papa came at last," said the Countess, "and so did Prince Rupert—but + not, I think, till they were both heartily wished for.—Do you + remember that morning, Margaret, when the round-headed knaves, that kept + us pent up so long, retreated without bag or baggage, at the first glance + of the Prince's standards appearing on the hill—and how you took + every high-crested captain you saw for Peveril of the Peak, that had been + your partner three months before at the Queen's mask? Nay, never blush for + the thought of it—it was an honest affection—and though it was + the music of trumpets that accompanied you both to the old chapel, which + was almost entirely ruined by the enemy's bullets; and though Prince + Rupert, when he gave you away at the altar, was clad in buff and + bandoleer, with pistols in his belt, yet I trust these warlike signs were + no type of future discord?" + </p> + <p> + "Heaven has been kind to me," said the Lady Peveril, "in blessing me with + an affectionate husband." + </p> + <p> + "And in preserving him to you," said the Countess, with a deep sigh; + "while mine, alas! sealed with his blood his devotion to his king[*]—Oh, + had he lived to see this day!" + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +[*] The Earl of Derby and King in Man was beheaded at Bolton-on-the- + Moors, after having been made prisoner in a previous skirmish in + Wiggan Lane. +</pre> + <p> + "Alas! alas! that he was not permitted!" answered Lady Peveril; "how had + that brave and noble Earl rejoiced in the unhoped-for redemption of our + captivity!" + </p> + <p> + The Countess looked on Lady Peveril with an air of surprise. + </p> + <p> + "Thou hast not then heard, cousin, how it stands with our house?—How + indeed had my noble lord wondered, had he been told that the very monarch + for whom he had laid down his noble life on the scaffold at + Bolton-le-Moor, should make it his first act of restored monarchy to + complete the destruction of our property, already well-nigh ruined in the + royal cause, and to persecute me his widow!" + </p> + <p> + "You astonish me, madam!" said the Lady Peveril. "It cannot be, that you—that + you, the wife of the gallant, the faithful, the murdered Earl—you, + Countess of Derby, and Queen in Man—you, who took on you even the + character of a soldier, and seemed a man when so many men proved women—that + you should sustain evil from the event which has fulfilled—exceeded—the + hopes of every faithful subject—it cannot be!" + </p> + <p> + "Thou art as simple, I see, in this world's knowledge as ever, my fair + cousin," answered the Countess. "This restoration, which has given others + security, has placed me in danger—this change which relieved other + Royalists, scarce less zealous, I presume to think, than I—has sent + me here a fugitive, and in concealment, to beg shelter and assistance from + you, fair cousin." + </p> + <p> + "From me," answered the Lady Peveril—"from me, whose youth your + kindness sheltered—from the wife of Peveril, your gallant Lord's + companion in arms—you have a right to command everything; but, alas! + that you should need such assistance as I can render—forgive me, but + it seems like some ill-omened vision of the night—I listen to your + words as if I hoped to be relieved from their painful import by awaking." + </p> + <p> + "It is indeed a dream—a vision," said the Countess of Derby; "but it + needs no seer to read it—the explanation hath been long since given—Put + not your faith in princes. I can soon remove your surprise.—This + gentleman, your friend, is doubtless <i>honest?</i>" + </p> + <p> + The Lady Peveril well knew that the Cavaliers, like other factions, + usurped to themselves the exclusive denomination of the <i>honest</i> + party, and she felt some difficulty in explaining that her visitor was not + honest in that sense of the word. + </p> + <p> + "Had we not better retire, madam?" she said to the Countess, rising, as if + in order to attend her. But the Countess retained her seat. + </p> + <p> + "It was but a question of habit," she said; "the gentleman's principles + are nothing to me, for what I have to tell you is widely blazed, and I + care not who hears my share of it. You remember—you must have heard, + for I think Margaret Stanley would not be indifferent to my fate—that + after my husband's murder at Bolton, I took up the standard which he never + dropped until his death, and displayed it with my own hand in our + Sovereignty of Man." + </p> + <p> + "I did indeed hear so, madam," said the Lady Peveril; "and that you had + bidden a bold defiance to the rebel government, even after all other parts + of Britain had submitted to them. My husband, Sir Geoffrey, designed at + one time to have gone to your assistance with some few followers; but we + learned that the island was rendered to the Parliament party, and that + you, dearest lady, were thrown into prison." + </p> + <p> + "But you heard not," said the Countess, "how that disaster befell me.—Margaret, + I would have held out that island against the knaves as long as the sea + continued to flow around it. Till the shoals which surround it had become + safe anchorage—till its precipices had melted beneath the sunshine—till + of all its strong abodes and castles not one stone remained upon another,—would + I have defended against these villainous hypocritical rebels, my dear + husband's hereditary dominion. The little kingdom of Man should have been + yielded only when not an arm was left to wield a sword, not a finger to + draw a trigger in its defence. But treachery did what force could never + have done. When we had foiled various attempts upon the island by open + force—treason accomplished what Blake and Lawson, with their + floating castles, had found too hazardous an enterprise—a base + rebel, whom we had nursed in our own bosoms, betrayed us to the enemy. + This wretch was named Christian——" + </p> + <p> + Major Bridgenorth started and turned towards the speaker, but instantly + seemed to recollect himself, and again averted his face. The Countess + proceeded, without noticing the interruption, which, however, rather + surprised Lady Peveril, who was acquainted with her neighbour's general + habits of indifference and apathy, and therefore the more surprised at his + testifying such sudden symptoms of interest. She would once again have + moved the Countess to retire to another apartment, but Lady Derby + proceeded with too much vehemence to endure interruption. + </p> + <p> + "This Christian," she said, "had eaten of my lord his sovereign's bread, + and drunk of his cup, even from childhood—for his fathers had been + faithful servants to the House of Man and Derby. He himself had fought + bravely by my husband's side, and enjoyed all his confidence; and when my + princely Earl was martyred by the rebels, he recommended to me, amongst + other instructions communicated in the last message I received from him, + to continue my confidence in Christian's fidelity. I obeyed, although I + never loved the man. He was cold and phlegmatic, and utterly devoid of + that sacred fire which is the incentive to noble deeds, suspected, too, of + leaning to the cold metaphysics of Calvinistic subtlety. But he was brave, + wise, and experienced, and, as the event proved, possessed but too much + interest with the islanders. When these rude people saw themselves without + hope of relief, and pressed by a blockade, which brought want and disease + into their island, they began to fall off from the faith which they had + hitherto shown." + </p> + <p> + "What!" said the Lady Peveril, "could they forget what was due to the + widow of their benefactor—she who had shared with the generous Derby + the task of bettering their condition?" + </p> + <p> + "Do not blame them," said the Countess; "the rude herd acted but according + to their kind—in present distress they forgot former benefits, and, + nursed in their earthen hovels, with spirits suited to their dwellings, + they were incapable of feeling the glory which is attached to constancy in + suffering. But that Christian should have headed their revolt—that + he, born a gentleman, and bred under my murdered Derby's own care in all + that was chivalrous and noble—that <i>he</i> should have forgot a + hundred benefits—why do I talk of benefits?—that he should + have forgotten that kindly intercourse which binds man to man far more + than the reciprocity of obligation—that he should have headed the + ruffians who broke suddenly into my apartment—immured me with my + infants in one of my own castles, and assumed or usurped the tyranny of + the island—that this should have been done by William Christian, my + vassal, my servant, my friend, was a deed of ungrateful treachery, which + even this age of treason will scarcely parallel!" + </p> + <p> + "And you were then imprisoned," said the Lady Peveril, "and in your own + sovereignty?" + </p> + <p> + "For more than seven years I have endured strict captivity," said the + Countess. "I was indeed offered my liberty, and even some means of + support, if I would have consented to leave the island, and pledge my word + that I would not endeavour to repossess my son in his father's rights. But + they little knew the princely house from which I spring—and as + little the royal house of Stanley which I uphold, who hoped to humble + Charlotte of Tremouille into so base a composition. I would rather have + starved in the darkest and lowest vault of Rushin Castle, than have + consented to aught which might diminish in one hair's-breadth the right of + my son over his father's sovereignty!" + </p> + <p> + "And could not your firmness, in a case where hope seemed lost, induce + them to be generous and dismiss you without conditions?" + </p> + <p> + "They knew me better than thou dost, wench," answered the Countess; "once + at liberty, I had not been long without the means of disturbing their + usurpation, and Christian would have as soon encaged a lioness to combat + with, as have given me the slightest power of returning to the struggle + with him. But time had liberty and revenge in store—I had still + friends and partisans in the island, though they were compelled to give + way to the storm. Even among the islanders at large, most had been + disappointed in the effects which they expected from the change of power. + They were loaded with exactions by their new masters, their privileges + were abridged, and their immunities abolished, under the pretext of + reducing them to the same condition with the other subjects of the + pretended republic. When the news arrived of the changes which were + current in Britain, these sentiments were privately communicated to me. + Calcott and others acted with great zeal and fidelity; and a rising, + effected as suddenly and effectually as that which had made me a captive, + placed me at liberty and in possession of the sovereignty of Man, as + Regent for my son, the youthful Earl of Derby. Do you think I enjoyed that + sovereignty long without doing justice on that traitor Christian?" + </p> + <p> + "How, madam," said Lady Peveril, who, though she knew the high and + ambitious spirit of the Countess, scarce anticipated the extremities to + which it was capable of hurrying her—"have you imprisoned + Christian?" + </p> + <p> + "Ay, wench—in that sure prison which felon never breaks from," + answered the Countess. + </p> + <p> + Bridgenorth, who had insensibly approached them, and was listening with an + agony of interest which he was unable any longer to suppress, broke in + with the stern exclamation— + </p> + <p> + "Lady, I trust you have not dared——" + </p> + <p> + The Countess interrupted him in her turn. + </p> + <p> + "I know not who you are who question—and you know not me when you + speak to me of that which I dare, or dare not do. But you seem interested + in the fate of this Christian, and you shall hear it.—I was no + sooner placed in possession of my rightful power, than I ordered the + Dempster of the island to hold upon the traitor a High Court of Justice, + with all the formalities of the isle, as prescribed in its oldest records. + The Court was held in the open air, before the Dempster and the Keys of + the island, assembled under the vaulted cope of heaven, and seated on the + terrace of the Zonwald Hill, where of old Druid and Scald held their + courts of judgment. The criminal was heard at length in his own defence, + which amounted to little more than those specious allegations of public + consideration, which are ever used to colour the ugly front of treason. He + was fully convicted of his crime, and he received the doom of a traitor." + </p> + <p> + "But which, I trust, is not yet executed?" said Lady Peveril, not without + an involuntary shudder. + </p> + <p> + "You are a fool, Margaret," said the Countess sharply; "think you I + delayed such an act of justice, until some wretched intrigues of the new + English Court might have prompted their interference? No, wench—he + passed from the judgment-seat to the place of execution, with no farther + delay than might be necessary for his soul's sake. He was shot to death by + a file of musketeers in the common place of execution called Hango Hill." + </p> + <p> + Bridgenorth clasped his hands together, wrung them, and groaned bitterly. + </p> + <p> + "As you seem interested for this criminal," added the Countess, addressing + Bridgenorth, "I do him but justice in repeating to you, that his death was + firm and manly, becoming the general tenor of his life, which, but for + that gross act of traitorous ingratitude, had been fair and honourable. + But what of that? The hypocrite is a saint, and the false traitor a man of + honour, till opportunity, that faithful touchstone, proves their metal to + be base." + </p> + <p> + "It is false, woman—it is false!" said Bridgenorth, no longer + suppressing his indignation. + </p> + <p> + "What means this bearing, Master Bridgenorth?" said Lady Peveril, much + surprised. "What is this Christian to you, that you should insult the + Countess of Derby under my roof?" + </p> + <p> + "Speak not to me of countesses and of ceremonies," said Bridgenorth; + "grief and anger leave me no leisure for idle observances to humour the + vanity of overgrown children.—O Christian—worthy, well worthy, + of the name thou didst bear! My friend—my brother—the brother + of my blessed Alice—the only friend of my desolate estate! art thou + then cruelly murdered by a female fury, who, but for thee, had deservedly + paid with her own blood that of God's saints, which she, as well as her + tyrant husband, had spilled like water!—Yes, cruel murderess!" he + continued, addressing the Countess, "he whom thou hast butchered in thy + insane vengeance, sacrificed for many a year the dictates of his own + conscience to the interest of thy family, and did not desert it till thy + frantic zeal for royalty had well-nigh brought to utter perdition the + little community in which he was born. Even in confining thee, he acted + but as the friends of the madman, who bind him with iron for his own + preservation; and for thee, as I can bear witness, he was the only barrier + between thee and the wrath of the Commons of England; and but for his + earnest remonstrances, thou hadst suffered the penalty of thy malignancy, + even like the wicked wife of Ahab." + </p> + <p> + "Master Bridgenorth," said the Lady Peveril, "I will allow for your + impatience upon hearing these unpleasing tidings; but there is neither use + nor propriety in farther urging this question. If in your grief you forget + other restraints, I pray you to remember that the Countess is my guest and + kinswoman, and is under such protection as I can afford her. I beseech + you, in simple courtesy, to withdraw, as what must needs be the best and + most becoming course in these trying circumstances." + </p> + <p> + "Nay, let him remain," said the Countess, regarding him with composure, + not unmingled with triumph; "I would not have it otherwise; I would not + that my revenge should be summed up in the stinted gratification which + Christian's death hath afforded. This man's rude and clamorous grief only + proves that the retribution I have dealt has been more widely felt than by + the wretched sufferer himself. I would I knew that it had but made sore as + many rebel hearts, as there were loyal breasts afflicted by the death of + my princely Derby!" + </p> + <p> + "So please you, madam," said Lady Peveril, "since Master Bridgenorth hath + not the manners to leave us upon my request, we will, if your ladyship + lists, leave him, and retire to my apartment.—Farewell, Master + Bridgenorth; we will meet hereafter on better terms." + </p> + <p> + "Pardon me, madam," said the Major, who had been striding hastily through + the room, but now stood fast, and drew himself up, as one who has taken a + resolution;—"to yourself I have nothing to say but what is + respectful; but to this woman I must speak as a magistrate. She has + confessed a murder in my presence—the murder too of my + brother-in-law—as a man, and as a magistrate, I cannot permit her to + pass from hence, excepting under such custody as may prevent her farther + flight. She has already confessed that she is a fugitive, and in search of + a place of concealment, until she should be able to escape into foreign + parts.—Charlotte, Countess of Derby, I attach thee of the crime of + which thou hast but now made thy boast." + </p> + <p> + "I shall not obey your arrest," said the Countess composedly; "I was born + to give, but not to receive such orders. What have your English laws to do + with my acts of justice and of government, within my son's hereditary + kingdom? Am I not Queen in Man, as well as Countess of Derby? A feudatory + Sovereign indeed; but yet independent so long as my dues of homage are + duly discharged. What right can you assert over me?" + </p> + <p> + "That given by the precepts of Scripture," answered Bridgenorth—"'Whoso + spilleth man's blood, by man shall his blood be spilled.' Think not the + barbarous privileges of ancient feudal customs will avail to screen you + from the punishment due for an Englishman murdered upon pretexts + inconsistent with the act of indemnity." + </p> + <p> + "Master Bridgenorth," said the Lady Peveril, "if by fair terms you desist + not from your present purpose, I tell you that I neither dare, nor will, + permit any violence against this honourable lady within the walls of my + husband's castle." + </p> + <p> + "You will find yourself unable to prevent me from executing my duty, + madam," said Bridgenorth, whose native obstinacy now came in aid of his + grief and desire of revenge; "I am a magistrate, and act by authority." + </p> + <p> + "I know not that," said Lady Peveril. "That you <i>were</i> a magistrate, + Master Bridgenorth, under the late usurping powers, I know well; but till + I hear of your having a commission in the name of the King, I now hesitate + to obey you as such." + </p> + <p> + "I shall stand on small ceremony," said Bridgenorth. "Were I no + magistrate, every man has title to arrest for murder against the terms of + the indemnities held out by the King's proclamations, and I will make my + point good." + </p> + <p> + "What indemnities? What proclamations?" said the Countess of Derby + indignantly. "Charles Stuart may, if he pleases (and it doth seem to + please him), consort with those whose hands have been red with the blood, + and blackened with the plunder, of his father and of his loyal subjects. + He may forgive them if he will, and count their deeds good service. What + has that to do with this Christian's offence against me and mine? Born a + Mankesman—bred and nursed in the island—he broke the laws + under which he lived, and died for the breach of them, after the fair + trial which they allowed.—Methinks, Margaret, we have enough of this + peevish and foolish magistrate—I attend you to your apartment." + </p> + <p> + Major Bridgenorth placed himself betwixt them and the door, in a manner + which showed him determined to interrupt their passage; when the Lady + Peveril, who thought she already showed more deference to him in this + matter than her husband was likely to approve of, raised her voice, and + called loudly on her steward, Whitaker. That alert person, who had heard + high talking, and a female voice with which he was unacquainted, had + remained for several minutes stationed in the anteroom, much afflicted + with the anxiety of his own curiosity. Of course he entered in an instant. + </p> + <p> + "Let three of the men instantly take arms," said the lady; "bring them + into the anteroom, and wait my farther orders." + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0006" id="link2HCH0006"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VI + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + You shall have no worse prison than my chamber, + Nor jailer than myself. + —THE CAPTAIN. +</pre> + <p> + The command which Lady Peveril laid on her domestics to arm themselves, + was so unlike the usual gentle acquiescence of her manners, that Major + Bridgenorth was astonished. "How mean you, madam?" said he; "I thought + myself under a friendly roof." + </p> + <p> + "And you are so, Master Bridgenorth," said the Lady Peveril, without + departing from the natural calmness of her voice and manner; "but it is a + roof which must not be violated by the outrage of one friend against + another." + </p> + <p> + "It is well, madam," said Bridgenorth, turning to the door of the + apartment. "The worthy Master Solsgrace has already foretold, that the + time was returned when high houses and proud names should be once more an + excuse for the crimes of those who inhabit the one and bear the other. I + believed him not, but now see he is wiser than I. Yet think not I will + endure this tamely. The blood of my brother—of the friend of my + bosom—shall not long call from the altar, 'How long, O Lord, how + long!' If there is one spark of justice left in this unhappy England, that + proud woman and I shall meet where she can have no partial friend to + protect her." + </p> + <p> + So saying, he was about to leave the apartment, when Lady Peveril said, + "You depart not from this place, Master Bridgenorth, unless you give me + your word to renounce all purpose against the noble Countess's liberty + upon the present occasion." + </p> + <p> + "I would sooner," answered he, "subscribe to my own dishonour, madam, + written down in express words, than to any such composition. If any man + offers to interrupt me, his blood be on his own head!" As Major + Bridgenorth spoke, Whitaker threw open the door, and showed that, with the + alertness of an old soldier, who was not displeased to see things tend + once more towards a state of warfare, he had got with him four stout + fellows in the Knight of the Peak's livery, well armed with swords and + carabines, buff-coats, and pistols at their girdles. + </p> + <p> + "I will see," said Major Bridgenorth, "if any of these men be so desperate + as to stop me, a freeborn Englishman, and a magistrate in the discharge of + my duty." + </p> + <p> + So saying, he advanced upon Whitaker and his armed assistants, with his + hand on the hilt of his sword. + </p> + <p> + "Do not be so desperate, Master Bridgenorth," exclaimed Lady Peveril; and + added, in the same moment, "Lay hold upon, and disarm him, Whitaker; but + do him no injury." + </p> + <p> + Her commands were obeyed. Bridgenorth, though a man of moral resolution, + was not one of those who undertook to cope in person with odds of a + description so formidable. He half drew his sword, and offered such show + of resistance as made it necessary to secure him by actual force; but then + yielded up his weapon, and declared that, submitting to force which one + man was unable to resist, he made those who commanded, and who employed + it, responsible for assailing his liberty without a legal warrant. + </p> + <p> + "Never mind a warrant on a pinch, Master Bridgenorth," said old Whitaker; + "sure enough you have often acted upon a worse yourself. My lady's word is + as good as a warrant, sure, as Old Noll's commission; and you bore that + many a day, Master Bridgenorth, and, moreover, you laid me in the stocks + for drinking the King's health, Master Bridgenorth, and never cared a + farthing about the laws of England." + </p> + <p> + "Hold your saucy tongue, Whitaker," said the Lady Peveril; "and do you, + Master Bridgenorth, not take it to heart that you are detained prisoner + for a few hours, until the Countess of Derby can have nothing to fear from + your pursuit. I could easily send an escort with her that might bid + defiance to any force you could muster; but I wish, Heaven knows, to bury + the remembrance of old civil dissensions, not to awaken new. Once more, + will you think better of it—assume your sword again, and forget whom + you have now seen at Martindale Castle?" + </p> + <p> + "Never," said Bridgenorth. "The crime of this cruel woman will be the last + of human injuries which I can forget. The last thought of earthly kind + which will leave me, will be the desire that justice shall be done on + her." + </p> + <p> + "If such be your sentiments," said Lady Peveril, "though they are more + allied to revenge than to justice, I must provide for my friend's safety, + by putting restraint upon your person. In this room you will be supplied + with every necessary of life, and every convenience; and a message shall + relieve your domestics of the anxiety which your absence from the Hall is + not unlikely to occasion. When a few hours, at most two days, are over, I + will myself relieve you from confinement, and demand your pardon for now + acting as your obstinacy compels me to do." + </p> + <p> + The Major made no answer, but that he was in her hands, and must submit to + her pleasure; and then turned sullenly to the window, as if desirous to be + rid of their presence. + </p> + <p> + The Countess and the Lady Peveril left the apartment arm in arm; and the + lady issued forth her directions to Whitaker concerning the mode in which + she was desirous that Bridgenorth should be guarded and treated during his + temporary confinement; at the same time explaining to him, that the safety + of the Countess of Derby required that he should be closely watched. + </p> + <p> + In all proposals for the prisoner's security, such as the regular relief + of guards, and the like, Whitaker joyfully acquiesced, and undertook, body + for body, that he should be detained in captivity for the necessary + period. But the old steward was not half so docile when it came to be + considered how the captive's bedding and table should be supplied; and he + thought Lady Peveril displayed a very undue degree of attention to her + prisoner's comforts. "I warrant," he said, "that the cuckoldly Roundhead + ate enough of our fat beef yesterday to serve him for a month; and a + little fasting will do his health good. Marry, for drink, he shall have + plenty of cold water to cool his hot liver, which I will be bound is still + hissing with the strong liquors of yesterday. And as for bedding, there + are the fine dry board—more wholesome than the wet straw I lay upon + when I was in the stocks, I trow." + </p> + <p> + "Whitaker," said the lady peremptorily, "I desire you to provide Master + Bridgenorth's bedding and food in the way I have signified to you; and to + behave yourself towards him in all civility." + </p> + <p> + "Lack-a-day! yes, my lady," said Whitaker; "you shall have all your + directions punctually obeyed; but as an old servant, I cannot but speak my + mind." + </p> + <p> + The ladies retired after this conference with the steward in the + antechamber, and were soon seated in another apartment, which was + peculiarly dedicated to the use of the mistress of the mansion—having, + on the one side, access to the family bedroom; and, on the other, to the + still-room which communicated with the garden. There was also a small door + which, ascending a few steps, led to that balcony, already mentioned, that + overhung the kitchen; and the same passage, by a separate door, admitted + to the principal gallery in the chapel; so that the spiritual and temporal + affairs of the Castle were placed almost at once within the reach of the + same regulating and directing eye.[*] + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +[*] This peculiar collocation of apartments may be seen at Haddon + Hall, Derbyshire, once a seat of the Vernons, where, in the lady's + pew in the chapel, there is a sort of scuttle, which opens into + the kitchen, so that the good lady could ever and anon, without + much interruption of her religious duties, give an eye that the + roast-meat was not permitted to burn, and that the turn-broche did + his duty. +</pre> + <p> + In the tapestried room, from which issued these various sally-ports, the + Countess and Lady Peveril were speedily seated; and the former, smiling + upon the latter, said, as she took her hand, "Two things have happened + to-day, which might have surprised me, if anything ought to surprise me in + such times:—the first is, that yonder roundheaded fellow should have + dared to use such insolence in the house of Peveril of the Peak. If your + husband is yet the same honest and downright Cavalier whom I once knew, + and had chanced to be at home, he would have thrown the knave out of + window. But what I wonder at still more, Margaret, is your generalship. I + hardly thought you had courage sufficient to have taken such decided + measures, after keeping on terms with the man so long. When he spoke of + justices and warrants, you looked so overawed that I thought I felt the + clutch of the parish-beadles on my shoulder, to drag me to prison as a + vagrant." + </p> + <p> + "We owe Master Bridgenorth some deference, my dearest lady," answered the + Lady Peveril; "he has served us often and kindly, in these late times; but + neither he, nor any one else, shall insult the Countess of Derby in the + house of Margaret Stanley." + </p> + <p> + "Thou art become a perfect heroine, Margaret," replied the Countess. + </p> + <p> + "Two sieges, and alarms innumerable," said Lady Peveril, "may have taught + me presence of mind. My courage is, I believe, as slender as ever." + </p> + <p> + "Presence of mind <i>is</i> courage," answered the Countess. "Real valour + consists not in being insensible to danger, but in being prompt to + confront and disarm it;—and we may have present occasion for all + that we possess," she added, with some slight emotion, "for I hear the + trampling of horses' steps on the pavement of the court." + </p> + <p> + In one moment, the boy Julian, breathless with joy, came flying into the + room, to say that papa was returned, with Lamington and Sam Brewer; and + that he was himself to ride Black Hastings to the stable. In the second + the tramp of the honest Knight's heavy jack-boots was heard, as, in his + haste to see his lady, he ascended the staircase by two steps at a time. + He burst into the room; his manly countenance and disordered dress showing + marks that he had been riding fast; and without looking to any one else, + caught his good lady in his arms, and kissed her a dozen of times.—Blushing, + and with some difficulty, Lady Peveril extricated herself from Sir + Geoffrey's arms; and in a voice of bashful and gentle rebuke, bid him, for + shame, observe who was in the room. + </p> + <p> + "One," said the Countess, advancing to him, "who is right glad to see that + Sir Geoffrey Peveril, though turned courtier and favourite, still values + the treasure which she had some share in bestowing upon him. You cannot + have forgot the raising of the leaguer of Latham House!" + </p> + <p> + "The noble Countess of Derby!" said Sir Geoffrey, doffing his plumed hat + with an air of deep deference, and kissing with much reverence the hand + which she held out to him; "I am as glad to see your ladyship in my poor + house, as I would be to hear that they had found a vein of lead in the + Brown Tor. I rode hard, in the hope of being your escort through the + country. I feared you might have fallen into bad hands, hearing there was + a knave sent out with a warrant from the Council." + </p> + <p> + "When heard you so? and from whom?" + </p> + <p> + "It was from Cholmondley of Vale Royal," said Sir Geoffrey; "he is come + down to make provision for your safety through Cheshire; and I promised to + bring you there in safety. Prince Rupert, Ormond, and other friends, do + not doubt the matter will be driven to a fine; but they say the + Chancellor, and Harry Bennet, and some others of the over-sea counsellors, + are furious at what they call a breach of the King's proclamation. Hang + them, say I!—They left us to bear all the beating; and now they are + incensed that we should wish to clear scores with those who rode us like + nightmares!" + </p> + <p> + "What did they talk of for my chastisement?" said the Countess. + </p> + <p> + "I wot not," said Sir Geoffrey; "some friends, as I said, from our kind + Cheshire, and others, tried to bring it to a fine; but some, again, spoke + of nothing but the Tower, and a long imprisonment." + </p> + <p> + "I have suffered imprisonment long enough for King Charles's sake," said + the Countess; "and have no mind to undergo it at his hand. Besides, if I + am removed from the personal superintendence of my son's dominions in Man, + I know not what new usurpation may be attempted there. I must be obliged + to you, cousin, to contrive that I may get in security to Vale Royal, and + from thence I know I shall be guarded safely to Liverpool." + </p> + <p> + "You may rely on my guidance and protection, noble lady," answered her + host, "though you had come here at midnight, and with the rogue's head in + your apron, like Judith in the Holy Apocrypha, which I joy to hear once + more read in churches." + </p> + <p> + "Do the gentry resort much to the Court?" said the lady. + </p> + <p> + "Ay, madam," replied Sir Geoffrey; "and according to our saying, when + miners do begin to bore in these parts, it is <i>for the grace of God, and + what they there may find</i>." + </p> + <p> + "Meet the old Cavaliers with much countenance?" continued the Countess. + </p> + <p> + "Faith, madam, to speak truth," replied the Knight, "the King hath so + gracious a manner, that it makes every man's hopes blossom, though we have + seen but few that have ripened into fruit." + </p> + <p> + "You have not, yourself, my cousin," answered the Countess, "had room to + complain of ingratitude, I trust? Few have less deserved it at the King's + hand." + </p> + <p> + Sir Geoffrey was unwilling, like most prudent persons, to own the + existence of expectations which had proved fallacious, yet had too little + art in his character to conceal his disappointment entirely. "Who, I, + madam?" he said; "Alas! what should a poor country knight expect from the + King, besides the pleasure of seeing him in Whitehall once more, and + enjoying his own again? And his Majesty was very gracious when I was + presented, and spoke to me of Worcester, and of my horse, Black Hastings—he + had forgot his name, though—faith, and mine, too, I believe, had not + Prince Rupert whispered it to him. And I saw some old friends, such as his + Grace of Ormond, Sir Marmaduke Langdale, Sir Philip Musgrave, and so + forth; and had a jolly rouse or two, to the tune of old times." + </p> + <p> + "I should have thought so many wounds received—so many dangers + risked—such considerable losses—merited something more than a + few smooth words," said the Countess. + </p> + <p> + "Nay, my lady, there were other friends of mine who had the same thought," + answered Peveril. "Some were of opinion that the loss of so many hundred + acres of fair land was worth some reward of honour at least; and there + were who thought my descent from William the Conqueror—craving your + ladyship's pardon for boasting it in your presence—would not have + become a higher rank or title worse than the pedigree of some who have + been promoted. But what said the witty Duke of Buckingham, forsooth? + (whose grandsire was a Lei'stershire Knight—rather poorer, and + scarcely so well-born as myself)—Why, he said, that if all of my + degree who deserved well of the King in the late times were to be made + peers, the House of Lords must meet upon Salisbury Plain!" + </p> + <p> + "And that bad jest passed for a good argument!" said the Countess; "and + well it might, where good arguments pass for bad jests. But here comes one + I must be acquainted with." + </p> + <p> + This was little Julian, who now re-entered the hall, leading his little + sister, as if he had brought her to bear witness to the boastful tale + which he told his father, of his having manfully ridden Black Hastings to + the stable-yard, alone in the saddle; and that Saunders though he walked + by the horse's head, did not once put his hand upon the rein, and Brewer, + though he stood beside him, scarce held him by the knee. The father kissed + the boy heartily; and the Countess, calling him to her so soon as Sir + Geoffrey had set him down, kissed his forehead also, and then surveyed all + his features with a keen and penetrating eye. + </p> + <p> + "He is a true Peveril," said she, "mixed as he should be with some touch + of the Stanley. Cousin, you must grant me my boon, and when I am safely + established, and have my present affair arranged, you must let me have + this little Julian of yours some time hence, to be nurtured in my house, + held as my page, and the playfellow of the little Derby. I trust in + Heaven, they will be such friends as their fathers have been, and may God + send them more fortunate times!" + </p> + <p> + "Marry, and I thank you for the proposal with all my heart, madam," said + the Knight. "There are so many noble houses decayed, and so many more in + which the exercise and discipline for the training of noble youths is + given up and neglected, that I have often feared I must have kept Gil to + be young master at home; and I have had too little nurture myself to teach + him much, and so he would have been a mere hunting hawking knight of + Derbyshire. But in your ladyship's household, and with the noble young + Earl, he will have all, and more than all, the education which I could + desire." + </p> + <p> + "There shall be no distinction betwixt them, cousin," said the Countess; + "Margaret Stanley's son shall be as much the object of care to me as my + own, since you are kindly disposed to entrust him to my charge.—You + look pale, Margaret," she continued, "and the tear stands in your eye? Do + not be so foolish, my love—what I ask is better than you can desire + for your boy; for the house of my father, the Duke de la Tremouille, was + the most famous school of chivalry in France; nor have I degenerated from + him, or suffered any relaxation in that noble discipline which trained + young gentlemen to do honour to their race. You can promise your Julian no + such advantages, if you train him up a mere home-bred youth." + </p> + <p> + "I acknowledge the importance of the favour, madam," said Lady Peveril, + "and must acquiesce in what your ladyship honours us by proposing, and Sir + Geoffrey approves of; but Julian is an only child, and——" + </p> + <p> + "An only son," said the Countess, "but surely not an only child. You pay + too high deference to our masters, the male sex, if you allow Julian to + engross all your affection, and spare none for this beautiful girl." + </p> + <p> + So saying, she set down Julian, and, taking Alice Bridgenorth on her lap, + began to caress her; and there was, notwithstanding her masculine + character, something so sweet in the tone of her voice and in the cast of + her features, that the child immediately smiled, and replied to her marks + of fondness. This mistake embarrassed Lady Peveril exceedingly. Knowing + the blunt impetuosity of her husband's character, his devotion to the + memory of the deceased Earl of Derby, and his corresponding veneration for + his widow, she was alarmed for the consequences of his hearing the conduct + of Bridgenorth that morning, and was particularly desirous that he should + not learn it save from herself in private, and after due preparation. But + the Countess's error led to a more precipitate disclosure. + </p> + <p> + "That pretty girl, madam," answered Sir Geoffrey, "is none of ours—I + wish she were. She belongs to a neighbour hard by—a good man, and, + to say truth, a good neighbour—though he was carried off from his + allegiance in the late times by a d—d Presbyterian scoundrel, who + calls himself a parson, and whom I hope to fetch down from his perch + presently, with a wannion to him! He has been cock of the roost long + enough.—There are rods in pickle to switch the Geneva cloak with, I + can tell the sour-faced rogues that much. But this child is the daughter + of Bridgenorth—neighbour Bridgenorth, of Moultrassie Hall." + </p> + <p> + "Bridgenorth?" said the Countess; "I thought I had known all the + honourable names in Derbyshire—I remember nothing of Bridgenorth.—But + stay—was there not a sequestrator and committeeman of that name? + Sure, it cannot be he?" + </p> + <p> + Peveril took some shame to himself, as he replied, "It is the very man + whom your ladyship means, and you may conceive the reluctance with which I + submitted to receive good offices from one of his kidney; but had I not + done so, I should have scarce known how to find a roof to cover Dame + Margaret's head." + </p> + <p> + The Countess, as he spoke, raised the child gently from her lap, and + placed it upon the carpet, though little Alice showed a disinclination to + the change of place, which the lady of Derby and Man would certainly have + indulged in a child of patrician descent and loyal parentage. + </p> + <p> + "I blame you not," she said; "no one knows what temptation will bring us + down to. Yet I <i>did</i> think Peveril of the Peak would have resided in + its deepest cavern, sooner than owed an obligation to a regicide." + </p> + <p> + "Nay, madam," answered the Knight, "my neighbour is bad enough, but not so + bad as you would make him; he is but a Presbyterian—that I must + confess—but not an Independent." + </p> + <p> + "A variety of the same monster," said the Countess, "who hallooed while + the others hunted, and bound the victim whom the Independents massacred. + Betwixt such sects I prefer the Independents. They are at least bold, + bare-faced, merciless villains, have more of the tiger in them, and less + of the crocodile. I have no doubt it was that worthy gentleman who took it + upon him this morning——" + </p> + <p> + She stopped short, for she saw Lady Peveril was vexed and embarrassed. + </p> + <p> + "I am," she said, "the most luckless of beings. I have said something, I + know not what, to distress you, Margaret—Mystery is a bad thing, and + betwixt us there should be none." + </p> + <p> + "There is none, madam," said Lady Peveril, something impatiently; "I + waited but an opportunity to tell my husband what had happened—Sir + Geoffrey, Master Bridgenorth was unfortunately here when the Lady Derby + and I met; and he thought it part of his duty to speak of——" + </p> + <p> + "To speak of what?" said the Knight, bending his brows. "You were ever + something too fond, dame, of giving way to the usurpation of such people." + </p> + <p> + "I only mean," said Lady Peveril, "that as the person—he to whom + Lord Derby's story related—was the brother of his late lady, he + threatened—but I cannot think that he was serious." + </p> + <p> + "Threaten?—threaten the Lady of Derby and Man in my house!—the + widow of my friend—the noble Charlotte of Latham House!—by + Heaven, the prick-eared slave shall answer it! How comes it that my knaves + threw him not out of the window?" + </p> + <p> + "Alas! Sir Geoffrey, you forget how much we owe him," said the lady. + </p> + <p> + "Owe him!" said the Knight, still more indignant; for in his singleness of + apprehension he conceived that his wife alluded to pecuniary obligations,—"if + I do owe him some money, hath he not security for it? and must he have the + right, over and above, to domineer and play the magistrate in Martindale + Castle?—Where is he?—what have you made of him? I will—I + must speak with him." + </p> + <p> + "Be patient, Sir Geoffrey," said the Countess, who now discerned the cause + of her kinswoman's apprehension; "and be assured I did not need your + chivalry to defend me against this discourteous faitour, as <i>Morte + d'Arthur</i> would have called him. I promise you my kinswoman hath fully + righted my wrong; and I am so pleased to owe my deliverance entirely to + her gallantry, that I charge and command you, as a true knight, not to + mingle in the adventure of another." + </p> + <p> + Lady Peveril, who knew her husband's blunt and impatient temper, and + perceived that he was becoming angry, now took up the story, and plainly + and simply pointed out the cause of Master Bridgenorth's interference. + </p> + <p> + "I am sorry for it," said the Knight; "I thought he had more sense; and + that this happy change might have done some good upon him. But you should + have told me this instantly—It consists not with my honour that he + should be kept prisoner in this house, as if I feared anything he could do + to annoy the noble Countess, while she is under my roof, or within twenty + miles of this Castle." + </p> + <p> + So saying, and bowing to the Countess, he went straight to the gilded + chamber, leaving Lady Peveril in great anxiety for the event of an angry + meeting between a temper hasty as that of her husband, and stubborn like + that of Bridgenorth. Her apprehensions were, however, unnecessary; for the + meeting was not fated to take place. + </p> + <p> + When Sir Geoffrey Peveril, having dismissed Whitaker and his sentinels, + entered the gilded chamber, in which he expected to find his captive, the + prisoner had escaped, and it was easy to see in what manner. The sliding + panel had, in the hurry of the moment, escaped the memory of Lady Peveril, + and of Whitaker, the only persons who knew anything of it. It was probable + that a chink had remained open, sufficient to indicate its existence to + Bridgenorth; who withdrawing it altogether, had found his way into the + secret apartment with which it communicated, and from thence to the + postern of the Castle by another secret passage, which had been formed in + the thickness of the wall, as is not uncommon in ancient mansions; the + lords of which were liable to so many mutations of fortune, that they + usually contrived to secure some lurking place and secret mode of retreat + from their fortresses. That Bridgenorth had discovered and availed himself + of this secret mode of retreat was evident; because the private doors + communicating with the postern and the sliding panel in the gilded chamber + were both left open. + </p> + <p> + Sir Geoffrey returned to the ladies with looks of perplexity. While he + deemed Bridgenorth within his reach, he was apprehensive of nothing he + could do; for he felt himself his superior in personal strength, and in + that species of courage which induces a man to rush, without hesitation, + upon personal danger. But when at a distance, he had been for many years + accustomed to consider Bridgenorth's power and influence as something + formidable; and notwithstanding the late change of affairs, his ideas so + naturally reverted to his neighbour as a powerful friend or dangerous + enemy, that he felt more apprehension on the Countess's score, than he was + willing to acknowledge even to himself. The Countess observed his downcast + and anxious brow, and requested to know if her stay there was likely to + involve him in any trouble, or in any danger. + </p> + <p> + "The trouble should be welcome," said Sir Geoffrey, "and more welcome the + danger, which should come on such an account. My plan was, that your + ladyship should have honoured Martindale with a few days' residence, which + might have been kept private until the search after you was ended. Had I + seen this fellow Bridgenorth, I have no doubt I could have compelled him + to act discreetly; but he is now at liberty, and will keep out of my + reach; and, what is worse, he has the secret of the priest's chamber." + </p> + <p> + Here the Knight paused, and seemed much embarrassed. + </p> + <p> + "You can, then, neither conceal nor protect me?" said the Countess. + </p> + <p> + "Pardon, my honoured lady," answered the Knight, "and let me say out my + say. The plain truth is, that this man hath many friends among the + Presbyterians here, who are more numerous than I would wish them; and if + he falls in with the pursuivant fellow who carries the warrant of the + Privy Council, it is likely he will back him with force sufficient to try + to execute it. And I doubt whether any of our friends can be summoned + together in haste, sufficient to resist such a power as they are like to + bring together." + </p> + <p> + "Nor would I wish any friends to take arms, in my name, against the King's + warrant, Sir Geoffrey," said the Countess. + </p> + <p> + "Nay, for that matter," replied the Knight, "an his Majesty will grant + warrants against his best friends, he must look to have them resisted. But + the best I can think of in this emergence is—though the proposal be + something inhospitable—that your ladyship should take presently to + horse, if your fatigue will permit. I will mount also, with some brisk + fellows, who will lodge you safe at Vale Royal, though the Sheriff stopped + the way with a whole <i>posse comitatus</i>." + </p> + <p> + The Countess of Derby willingly acquiesced in this proposal. She had + enjoyed a night's sound repose in the private chamber, to which Ellesmere + had guided her on the preceding evening, and was quite ready to resume her + route, or flight—"she scarce knew," she said, "which of the two she + should term it." + </p> + <p> + Lady Peveril wept at the necessity which seemed to hurry her earliest + friend and protectress from under her roof, at the instant when the clouds + of adversity were gathering around her; but she saw no alternative equally + safe. Nay, however strong her attachment to Lady Derby, she could not but + be more readily reconciled to her hasty departure, when she considered the + inconvenience, and even danger, in which her presence, at such a time, and + in such circumstances, was likely to involve a man so bold and + hot-tempered as her husband Sir Geoffrey. + </p> + <p> + While Lady Peveril, therefore, made every arrangement which time permitted + and circumstances required, for the Countess prosecuting her journey, her + husband, whose spirits always rose with the prospect of action, issued his + orders to Whitaker to get together a few stout fellows, with back and + breast pieces, and steel-caps. "There are the two lackeys, and Outram and + Saunders, besides the other groom fellow, and Roger Raine, and his son; + but bid Roger not come drunk again;—thyself, young Dick of the Dale + and his servant, and a file or two of the tenants,—we shall be + enough for any force they can make. All these are fellows that will strike + hard, and ask no question why—their hands are ever readier than + their tongues, and their mouths are more made for drinking than speaking." + </p> + <p> + Whitaker, apprised of the necessity of the case, asked if he should not + warn Sir Jasper Cranbourne. + </p> + <p> + "Not a word to him, as you live," said the Knight; "this may be an + outlawry, as they call it, for what I know; and therefore I will bring no + lands or tenements into peril, saving mine own. Sir Jasper hath had a + troublesome time of it for many a year. By my will, he shall sit quiet for + the rest of's days." + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0007" id="link2HCH0007"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VII + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + <i>Fang.</i>—A rescue! a rescue! + <i>Mrs. Quickly.</i>—Good people, bring a rescue or two. + —Henry IV. <i>Part I.</i> +</pre> + <p> + The followers of Peveril were so well accustomed to the sound of "Boot and + Saddle," that they were soon mounted and in order; and in all the form, + and with some of the dignity of danger, proceeded to escort the Countess + of Derby through the hilly and desert tract of country which connects the + frontier of the shire with the neighbouring county of Cheshire. The + cavalcade moved with considerable precaution, which they had been taught + by the discipline of the Civil Wars. One wary and well-mounted trooper + rode about two hundred yards in advance; followed, at about half that + distance, by two more, with their carabines advanced, as if ready for + action. About one hundred yards behind the advance, came the main body; + where the Countess of Derby, mounted on Lady Peveril's ambling palfrey + (for her own had been exhausted by the journey from London to Martindale + Castle), accompanied by one groom, of approved fidelity, and one + waiting-maid, was attended and guarded by the Knight of the Peak, and + three files of good and practised horsemen. In the rear came Whitaker, + with Lance Outram, as men of especial trust, to whom the covering the + retreat was confided. They rode, as the Spanish proverb expresses it, + "with the beard on the shoulder," looking around, that is, from time to + time, and using every precaution to have the speediest knowledge of any + pursuit which might take place. + </p> + <p> + But, however wise in discipline, Peveril and his followers were somewhat + remiss in civil policy. The Knight had communicated to Whitaker, though + without any apparent necessity, the precise nature of their present + expedition; and Whitaker was equally communicative to his comrade Lance, + the keeper. "It is strange enough, Master Whitaker," said the latter, when + he had heard the case, "and I wish you, being a wise man, would expound + it;—why, when we have been wishing for the King—and praying + for the King—and fighting for the King—and dying for the King, + for these twenty years, the first thing we find to do on his return, is to + get into harness to resist his warrant?" + </p> + <p> + "Pooh! you silly fellow," said Whitaker, "that is all you know of the true + bottom of our quarrel! Why, man, we fought for the King's person against + his warrant, all along from the very beginning; for I remember the rogues' + proclamations, and so forth, always ran in the name of the King and + Parliament." + </p> + <p> + "Ay! was it even so?" replied Lance. "Nay, then, if they begin the old + game so soon again, and send out warrants in the King's name against his + loyal subjects, well fare our stout Knight, say I, who is ready to take + them down in their stocking-soles. And if Bridgenorth takes the chase + after us, I shall not be sorry to have a knock at him for one." + </p> + <p> + "Why, the man, bating he is a pestilent Roundhead and Puritan," said + Whitaker, "is no bad neighbour. What has he done to thee, man?" + </p> + <p> + "He has poached on the manor," answered the keeper. + </p> + <p> + "The devil he has!" replied Whitaker. "Thou must be jesting, Lance. + Bridgenorth is neither hunter nor hawker; he hath not so much of honesty + in him." + </p> + <p> + "Ay, but he runs after game you little think of, with his sour, melancholy + face, that would scare babes and curdle milk," answered Lance. + </p> + <p> + "Thou canst not mean the wenches?" said Whitaker; "why, he hath been + melancholy mad with moping for the death of his wife. Thou knowest our + lady took the child, for fear he should strangle it for putting him in + mind of its mother, in some of his tantrums. Under her favour, and among + friends, there are many poor Cavaliers' children, that care would be + better bestowed upon—But to thy tale." + </p> + <p> + "Why, thus it runs," said Lance. "I think you may have noticed, Master + Whitaker, that a certain Mistress Deborah hath manifested a certain favour + for a certain person in a certain household." + </p> + <p> + "For thyself, to wit," answered Whitaker; "Lance Outram, thou art the + vainest coxcomb——" + </p> + <p> + "Coxcomb?" said Lance; "why, 'twas but last night the whole family saw + her, as one would say, fling herself at my head." + </p> + <p> + "I would she had been a brickbat then, to have broken it, for thy + impertinence and conceit," said the steward. + </p> + <p> + "Well, but do but hearken. The next morning—that is, this very + blessed morning—I thought of going to lodge a buck in the park, + judging a bit of venison might be wanted in the larder, after yesterday's + wassail; and, as I passed under the nursery window, I did but just look up + to see what madam governante was about; and so I saw her, through the + casement, whip on her hood and scarf as soon as she had a glimpse of me. + Immediately after I saw the still-room door open, and made sure she was + coming through the garden, and so over the breach and down to the park; + and so, thought I, 'Aha, Mistress Deb, if you are so ready to dance after + my pipe and tabor, I will give you a couranto before you shall come up + with me.' And so I went down Ivy-tod Dingle, where the copse is tangled, + and the ground swampy, and round by Haxley-bottom, thinking all the while + she was following, and laughing in my sleeve at the round I was giving + her." + </p> + <p> + "You deserved to be ducked for it," said Whitaker, "for a weather-headed + puppy; but what is all this Jack-a-lantern story to Bridgenorth?" + </p> + <p> + "Why, it was all along of he, man," continued Lance, "that is, of + Bridgenorth, that she did not follow me—Gad, I first walked slow, + and then stopped, and then turned back a little, and then began to wonder + what she had made of herself, and to think I had borne myself something + like a jackass in the matter." + </p> + <p> + "That I deny," said Whitaker, "never jackass but would have borne him + better—but go on." + </p> + <p> + "Why, turning my face towards the Castle, I went back as if I had my nose + bleeding, when just by the Copely thorn, which stands, you know, a + flight-short from the postern-gate, I saw Madam Deb in close conference + with the enemy." + </p> + <p> + "What enemy?" said the steward. + </p> + <p> + "What enemy! why, who but Bridgenorth? They kept out of sight, and among + the copse; but, thought I, it is hard if I cannot stalk you, that have + stalked so many bucks. If so, I had better give my shafts to be pudding + pins. So I cast round the thicket, to watch their waters; and may I never + bend crossbow again, if I did not see him give her gold, and squeeze her + by the hand!" + </p> + <p> + "And was that all you saw pass between them?" said the steward. + </p> + <p> + "Faith, and it was enough to dismount me from my hobby," said Lance. + "What! when I thought I had the prettiest girl in the Castle dancing after + my whistle, to find that she gave me the bag to hold, and was smuggling in + a corner with a rich old Puritan!" + </p> + <p> + "Credit me, Lance, it is not as thou thinkest," said Whitaker. + "Bridgenorth cares not for these amorous toys, and thou thinkest of + nothing else. But it is fitting our Knight should know that he has met + with Deborah in secret, and given her gold; for never Puritan gave gold + yet, but it was earnest for some devil's work done, or to be done." + </p> + <p> + "Nay, but," said Lance, "I would not be such a dog-bolt as to go and + betray the girl to our master. She hath a right to follow her fancy, as + the dame said who kissed her cow—only I do not much approve her + choice, that is all. He cannot be six years short of fifty; and a verjuice + countenance, under the penthouse of a slouched beaver, and bag of meagre + dried bones, swaddled up in a black cloak, is no such temptation, + methinks." + </p> + <p> + "I tell you once more," said Whitaker, "you are mistaken; and that there + neither is, nor can be, any matter of love between them, but only some + intrigue, concerning, perhaps, this same noble Countess of Derby. I tell + thee, it behoves my master to know it, and I will presently tell it to + him." + </p> + <p> + So saying, and in spite of all the remonstrances which Lance continued to + make on behalf of Mistress Deborah, the steward rode up to the main body + of their little party, and mentioned to the Knight, and the Countess of + Derby, what he had just heard from the keeper, adding at the same time his + own suspicions, that Master Bridgenorth of Moultrassie Hall was desirous + to keep up some system of espial in the Castle of Martindale, either in + order to secure his menaced vengeance on the Countess of Derby, as + authoress of his brother-in-law's death, or for some unknown, but probably + sinister purpose. + </p> + <p> + The Knight of the Peak was filled with high resentment at Whitaker's + communication. According to his prejudices, those of the opposite faction + were supposed to make up by wit and intrigue what they wanted in open + force; and he now hastily conceived that his neighbour, whose prudence he + always respected, and sometimes even dreaded, was maintaining for his + private purposes, a clandestine correspondence with a member of his + family. If this was for the betrayal of his noble guest, it argued at once + treachery and presumption; or, viewing the whole as Lance had done, a + criminal intrigue with a woman so near the person of Lady Peveril, was in + itself, he deemed, a piece of sovereign impertinence and disrespect on the + part of such a person as Bridgenorth, against whom Sir Geoffrey's anger + was kindled accordingly. + </p> + <p> + Whitaker had scarce regained his post in the rear, when he again quitted + it, and galloped to the main body with more speed than before, with the + unpleasing tidings that they were pursued by half a score of horseman, and + better. + </p> + <p> + "Ride on briskly to Hartley-nick," said the Knight, "and there, with God + to help, we will bide the knaves.—Countess of Derby—one word + and a short one—Farewell!—you must ride forward with Whitaker + and another careful fellow, and let me alone to see that no one treads on + your skirts." + </p> + <p> + "I will abide with you and stand them," said the Countess; "you know of + old, I fear not to look on man's work." + </p> + <p> + "You <i>must</i> ride on, madam," said the Knight, "for the sake of the + young Earl, and the rest of my noble friends' family. There is no manly + work which can be worth your looking upon; it is but child's play that + these fellows bring with them." + </p> + <p> + As she yielded a reluctant consent to continue her flight, they reached + the bottom of Hartley-nick, a pass very steep and craggy, and where the + road, or rather path, which had hitherto passed over more open ground, + became pent up and confined betwixt copsewood on the one side, and, on the + other, the precipitous bank of a mountain stream. + </p> + <p> + The Countess of Derby, after an affectionate adieu to Sir Geoffrey, and + having requested him to convey her kind commendations to her little + page-elect and his mother, proceeded up the pass at a round pace, and with + her attendants and escort, was soon out of sight. Immediately after she + had disappeared, the pursuers came up with Sir Geoffrey Peveril, who had + divided and drawn up his party so as completely to occupy the road at + three different points. + </p> + <p> + The opposite party was led, as Sir Geoffrey had expected, by Major + Bridgenorth. At his side was a person in black, with a silver greyhound on + his arm; and he was followed by about eight or ten inhabitants of the + village of Martindale Moultrassie, two or three of whom were officers of + the peace, and others were personally known to Sir Geoffrey as favourers + of the subverted government. + </p> + <p> + As the party rode briskly up, Sir Geoffrey called to them to halt; and as + they continued advancing, he ordered his own people to present their + pistols and carabines; and after assuming that menacing attitude, he + repeated, with a voice of thunder, "Halt, or we fire!" + </p> + <p> + The other party halted accordingly, and Major Bridgenorth advanced, as if + to parley. + </p> + <p> + "Why, how now, neighbour," said Sir Geoffrey, as if he had at that moment + recognised him for the first time,—"what makes you ride so sharp + this morning? Are you not afraid to harm your horse, or spoil your spurs?" + </p> + <p> + "Sir Geoffrey," said the Major, "I have not time for jesting—I'm on + the King's affairs." + </p> + <p> + "Are you sure it is not upon Old Noll's, neighbour? You used to hold his + the better errand," said the Knight, with a smile which gave occasion to a + horse-laugh among his followers. + </p> + <p> + "Show him your warrant," said Bridgenorth to the man in black formerly + mentioned, who was a pursuivant. Then taking the warrant from the officer, + he gave it to Sir Geoffrey—"To this, at least, you will pay regard." + </p> + <p> + "The same regard which you would have paid to it a month back or so," said + the Knight, tearing the warrant to shreds.—"What a plague do you + stare at? Do you think you have a monopoly of rebellion, and that we have + not a right to show a trick of disobedience in our turn?" + </p> + <p> + "Make way, Sir Geoffrey Peveril," said Bridgenorth, "or you will compel me + to do that I may be sorry for. I am in this matter the avenger of the + blood of one of the Lord's saints, and I will follow the chase while + Heaven grants me an arm to make my way." + </p> + <p> + "You shall make no way here but at your peril," said Sir Geoffrey; "this + is my ground—I have been harassed enough for these twenty years by + saints, as you call yourselves. I tell you, master, you shall neither + violate the security of my house, nor pursue my friends over the grounds, + nor tamper, as you have done, amongst my servants, with impunity. I have + had you in respect for certain kind doings, which I will not either forget + or deny, and you will find it difficult to make me draw a sword or bend a + pistol against you; but offer any hostile movement, or presume to advance + a foot, and I will make sure of you presently. And for those rascals, who + come hither to annoy a noble lady on my bounds, unless you draw them off, + I will presently send some of them to the devil before their time." + </p> + <p> + "Make room at your proper peril," said Major Bridgenorth; and he put his + right hand on his holster-pistol. Sir Geoffrey closed with him instantly, + seized him by the collar, and spurred Black Hastings, checking him at the + same time, so that the horse made a courbette, and brought the full weight + of his chest against the counter of the other. A ready soldier might, in + Bridgenorth's situation, have rid himself of his adversary with a bullet. + But Bridgenorth's courage, notwithstanding his having served some time + with the Parliament army, was rather of a civil than a military character; + and he was inferior to his adversary, not only in strength and + horsemanship, but also and especially in the daring and decisive + resolution which made Sir Geoffrey thrust himself readily into personal + contest. While, therefore, they tugged and grappled together upon terms + which bore such little accordance with their long acquaintance and close + neighbourhood, it was no wonder that Bridgenorth should be unhorsed with + much violence. While Sir Geoffrey sprung from the saddle, the party of + Bridgenorth advanced to rescue their leader, and that of the Knight to + oppose them. Swords were unsheathed, and pistols presented; but Sir + Geoffrey, with the voice of a herald, commanded both parties to stand + back, and to keep the peace. + </p> + <p> + The pursuivant took the hint, and easily found a reason for not + prosecuting a dangerous duty. "The warrant," he said, "was destroyed. They + that did it must be answerable to the Council; for his part, he could + proceed no farther without his commission." + </p> + <p> + "Well said, and like a peaceable fellow!" said Sir Geoffrey.—"Let + him have refreshment at the Castle—his nag is sorely out of + condition.—Come, neighbour Bridgenorth, get up, man—I trust + you have had no hurt in this mad affray? I was loath to lay hand on you, + man, till you plucked out your petronel." + </p> + <p> + As he spoke thus, he aided the Major to rise. The pursuivant, meanwhile, + drew aside; and with him the constable and head-borough, who were not + without some tacit suspicion, that though Peveril was interrupting the + direct course of law in this matter, yet he was likely to have his offence + considered by favourable judges; and therefore it might be as much for + their interest and safety to give way as to oppose him. But the rest of + the party, friends of Bridgenorth, and of his principles, kept their + ground notwithstanding this defection, and seemed, from their looks, + sternly determined to rule their conduct by that of their leader, whatever + it might be. + </p> + <p> + But it was evident that Bridgenorth did not intend to renew the struggle. + He shook himself rather roughly free from the hands of Sir Geoffrey + Peveril; but it was not to draw his sword. On the contrary, he mounted his + horse with a sullen and dejected air; and, making a sign to his followers, + turned back the same road which he had come. Sir Geoffrey looked after him + for some minutes. "Now, there goes a man," said he, "who would have been a + right honest fellow had he not been a Presbyterian. But there is no + heartiness about them—they can never forgive a fair fall upon the + sod—they bear malice, and that I hate as I do a black cloak, or a + Geneva skull-cap, and a pair of long ears rising on each side on't, like + two chimneys at the gable ends of a thatched cottage. They are as sly as + the devil to boot; and, therefore, Lance Outram, take two with you, and + keep after them, that they may not turn our flank, and get on the track of + the Countess again after all." + </p> + <p> + "I had as soon they should course my lady's white tame doe," answered + Lance, in the spirit of his calling. He proceeded to execute his master's + orders by dogging Major Bridgenorth at a distance, and observing his + course from such heights as commanded the country. But it was soon evident + that no manoeuvre was intended, and that the Major was taking the direct + road homeward. When this was ascertained, Sir Geoffrey dismissed most of + his followers; and retaining only his own domestics, rode hastily forward + to overtake the Countess. + </p> + <p> + It is only necessary to say farther, that he completed his purpose of + escorting the Countess of Derby to Vale Royal, without meeting any further + hindrance by the way. The lord of the mansion readily undertook to conduct + the high-minded lady to Liverpool, and the task of seeing her safely + embarked for her son's hereditary dominions, where there was no doubt of + her remaining in personal safety until the accusation against her for + breach of the Royal Indemnity, by the execution of Christian, could be + brought to some compromise. + </p> + <p> + For a length of time this was no easy matter. Clarendon, then at the head + of Charles's administration, considered her rash action, though dictated + by motives which the human breast must, in some respects, sympathise with, + as calculated to shake the restored tranquillity of England, by exciting + the doubts and jealousies of those who had to apprehend the consequences + of what is called, in our own time, a <i>reaction</i>. At the same time, + the high services of this distinguished family—the merits of the + Countess herself—the memory of her gallant husband—and the + very peculiar circumstances of jurisdiction which took the case out of all + common rules, pleaded strongly in her favour; and the death of Christian + was at length only punished by the imposition of a heavy fine, amounting, + we believe, to many thousand pounds; which was levied, with great + difficulty, out of the shattered estates of the young Earl of Derby. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0008" id="link2HCH0008"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VIII + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + My native land, good night! + —BYRON. +</pre> + <p> + Lady Peveril remained in no small anxiety for several hours after her + husband and the Countess had departed from Martindale Castle; more + especially when she learned that Major Bridgenorth, concerning whose + motions she made private inquiry, had taken horse with a party, and was + gone to the westward in the same direction with Sir Geoffrey. + </p> + <p> + At length her immediate uneasiness in regard to the safety of her husband + and the Countess was removed, by the arrival of Whitaker, with her + husband's commendations, and an account of the scuffle betwixt himself and + Major Bridgenorth. + </p> + <p> + Lady Peveril shuddered to see how nearly they had approached to renewal of + the scenes of civil discord; and while she was thankful to Heaven for her + husband's immediate preservation, she could not help feeling both regret + and apprehension for the consequences of his quarrel with Major + Bridgenorth. They had now lost an old friend, who had showed himself such + under those circumstances of adversity by which friendship is most + severely tried; and she could not disguise from herself that Bridgenorth, + thus irritated, might be a troublesome, if not a dangerous enemy. His + rights as a creditor, he had hitherto used with gentleness; but if he + should employ rigour, Lady Peveril, whose attention to domestic economy + had made her much better acquainted with her husband's affairs than he was + himself, foresaw considerable inconvenience from the measures which the + law put in his power. She comforted herself with the recollection, + however, that she had still a strong hold on Bridgenorth, through his + paternal affection, and from the fixed opinion which he had hitherto + manifested, that his daughter's health could only flourish while under her + charge. But any expectations of reconciliation which Lady Peveril might + probably have founded on this circumstance, were frustrated by an incident + which took place in the course of the following morning. + </p> + <p> + The governante, Mistress Deborah, who has been already mentioned, went + forth, as usual, with the children, to take their morning exercise in the + Park, attended by Rachael, a girl who acted occasionally as her assistant + in attending upon them. But not as usual did she return. It was near the + hour of breakfast, when Ellesmere, with an unwonted degree of primness in + her mouth and manner, came to acquaint her lady that Mistress Deborah had + not thought proper to come back from the Park, though the breakfast hour + approached so near. + </p> + <p> + "She will come, then, presently," said Lady Peveril with indifference. + </p> + <p> + Ellesmere gave a short and doubtful cough, and then proceeded to say, that + Rachael had been sent home with little Master Julian, and that Mistress + Deborah had been pleased to say, she would walk on with Miss Bridgenorth + as far as Moultrassie Holt; which was a point at which the property of the + Major, as matters now stood, bounded that of Sir Geoffrey Peveril. + </p> + <p> + "Is the wench turned silly," exclaimed the lady, something angrily, "that + she does not obey my orders, and return at regular hours?" + </p> + <p> + "She may be turning silly," said Ellesmere mysteriously; "or she may be + turning too sly; and I think it were as well your ladyship looked to it." + </p> + <p> + "Looked to what, Ellesmere?" said the lady impatiently. "You are strangely + oracular this morning. If you know anything to the prejudice of this young + woman, I pray you speak it out." + </p> + <p> + "I prejudice!" said Ellesmere; "I scorn to prejudice man, woman, or child, + in the way of a fellow-servant; only I wish your ladyship to look about + you, and use your own eyes—that is all." + </p> + <p> + "You bid me use my own eyes, Ellesmere; but I suspect," answered the lady, + "you would be better pleased were I contented to see through your + spectacles. I charge you—and you know I will be obeyed—I + charge you to tell me what you know or suspect about this girl, Deborah + Debbitch." + </p> + <p> + "I see through spectacles!" exclaimed the indignant Abigail; "your + ladyship will pardon me in that, for I never use them, unless a pair that + belonged to my poor mother, which I put on when your ladyship wants your + pinners curiously wrought. No woman above sixteen ever did white-seam + without barnacles. And then as to suspecting, I suspect nothing; for as + your ladyship hath taken Mistress Deborah Debbitch from under my hand, to + be sure it is neither bread nor butter of mine. Only" (here she began to + speak with her lips shut, so as scarce to permit a sound to issue, and + mincing her words as if she pinched off the ends of them before she + suffered them to escape),—"only, madam, if Mistress Deborah goes so + often of a morning to Moultrassie Holt, why, I should not be surprised if + she should never find the way back again." + </p> + <p> + "Once more, what do you mean, Ellesmere? You were wont to have some sense—let + me know distinctly what the matter is." + </p> + <p> + "Only, madam," pursued the Abigail, "that since Bridgenorth came back from + Chesterfield, and saw you at the Castle Hall, Mistress Deborah has been + pleased to carry the children every morning to that place; and it has so + happened that she has often met the Major, as they call him, there in his + walks; for he can walk about now like other folks; and I warrant you she + hath not been the worse of the meeting—one way at least, for she + hath bought a new hood might serve yourself, madam; but whether she hath + had anything in hand besides a piece of money, no doubt your ladyship is + best judge." + </p> + <p> + Lady Peveril, who readily adopted the more good-natured construction of + the governante's motives, could not help laughing at the idea of a man of + Bridgenorth's precise appearance, strict principles, and reserved habits, + being suspected of a design of gallantry; and readily concluded, that + Mistress Deborah had found her advantage in gratifying his parental + affection by a frequent sight of his daughter during the few days which + intervened betwixt his first seeing little Alice at the Castle, and the + events which had followed. But she was somewhat surprised, when, an hour + after the usual breakfast hour, during which neither the child nor + Mistress Deborah appeared, Major Bridgenorth's only man-servant arrived at + the Castle on horseback, dressed as for a journey; and having delivered a + letter addressed to herself, and another to Mistress Ellesmere, rode away + without waiting any answer. + </p> + <p> + There would have been nothing remarkable in this, had any other person + been concerned; but Major Bridgenorth was so very quiet and orderly in all + his proceedings—so little liable to act hastily or by impulse, that + the least appearance of bustle where he was concerned, excited surprise + and curiosity. + </p> + <p> + Lady Peveril broke her letter hastily open, and found that it contained + the following lines:— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "<i>For the Hands of the Honourable and Honoured Lady Peveril— + These:</i> + + "Madam—Please it your Ladyship,—I write more to excuse myself to + your ladyship, than to accuse either you or others, in respect + that I am sensible it becomes our frail nature better to confess + our own imperfections, than to complain of those of others. + Neither do I mean to speak of past times, particularly in respect + of your worthy ladyship, being sensible that if I have served you + in that period when our Israel might be called triumphant, you + have more than requited me, in giving to my arms a child, + redeemed, as it were, from the vale of the shadow of death. And + therefore, as I heartily forgive to your ladyship the unkind and + violent measure which you dealt to me at our last meeting (seeing + that the woman who was the cause of strife is accounted one of + your kindred people), I do entreat you, in like manner, to pardon + my enticing away from your service the young woman called Deborah + Debbitch, whose direction, is, it may be, indispensable to the + health of my dearest child. I had purposed, madam, with your + gracious permission, that Alice should have remained at Martindale + Castle, under your kind charge, until she could so far discern + betwixt good and evil, that it should be matter of conscience to + teach her the way in which she should go. For it is not unknown to + your ladyship, and in no way do I speak it reproachfully, but + rather sorrowfully, that a person so excellently gifted as + yourself—I mean touching natural qualities—has not yet received + that true light, which is a lamp to the paths, but are contented + to stumble in darkness, and among the graves of dead men. It has + been my prayer in the watches of the night, that your ladyship + should cease from the doctrine which causeth to err; but I grieve + to say, that our candlestick being about to be removed, the land + will most likely be involved in deeper darkness than ever; and the + return of the King, to which I and many looked forward as a + manifestation of divine favour, seems to prove little else than a + permitted triumph of the Prince of the Air, who setteth about to + restore his Vanity-fair of bishops, deans, and such like, + extruding the peaceful ministers of the word, whose labours have + proved faithful to many hungry souls. So, hearing from a sure + hand, that commission has gone forth to restore these dumb dogs, + the followers of Laud and of Williams, who were cast forth by the + late Parliament, and that an Act of Conformity, or rather of + deformity, of worship, was to be expected, it is my purpose to + flee from the wrath to come, and to seek some corner where I may + dwell in peace, and enjoy liberty of conscience. For who would + abide in the Sanctuary, after the carved work thereof is broken + down, and when it hath been made a place for owls, and satyrs of + the wilderness?—And herein I blame myself, madam, that I went in + the singleness of my heart too readily into that carousing in the + house of feasting, wherein my love of union, and my desire to show + respect to your ladyship, were made a snare to me. But I trust it + will be an atonement, that I am now about to absent myself from + the place of my birth, and the house of my fathers, as well as + from the place which holdeth the dust of those pledges of my + affection. I have also to remember, that in this land my honour + (after the worldly estimation) hath been abated, and my utility + circumscribed, by your husband, Sir Geoffrey Peveril; and that + without any chance of my obtaining reparation at his hand, whereby + I may say the hand of a kinsman was lifted up against my credit + and my life. These things are bitter to the taste of the old Adam; + wherefore to prevent farther bickerings, and, it may be, + bloodshed, it is better that I leave this land for a time. The + affairs which remain to be settled between Sir Geoffrey and + myself, I shall place in the hand of the righteous Master Joachim + Win-the-Fight, an attorney in Chester, who will arrange them with + such attention to Sir Geoffrey's convenience, as justice, and the + due exercise of the law, will permit; for, as I trust I shall + have grace to resist the temptation to make the weapons of carnal + warfare the instruments of my revenge, so I scorn to effect it + through the means of Mammon. Wishing, madam, that the Lord may + grant you every blessing, and, in especial, that which is over all + others, namely, the true knowledge of His way, I remain, your + devoted servant to command, RALPH BRIDGENORTH. + + "<i>Written at Moultrassie Hall, this tenth + day of July, 1660.</i>" +</pre> + <p> + So soon as Lady Peveril had perused this long and singular homily, in + which it seemed to her that her neighbour showed more spirit of religious + fanaticism than she could have supposed him possessed of, she looked up + and beheld Ellesmere,—with a countenance in which mortification, and + an affected air of contempt, seemed to struggle together,—who, tired + with watching the expression of her mistress's countenance, applied for + confirmation of her suspicions in plain terms. + </p> + <p> + "I suppose, madam," said the waiting-woman, "the fanatic fool intends to + marry the wench? They say he goes to shift the country. Truly it's time, + indeed; for, besides that the whole neighbourhood would laugh him to + scorn, I should not be surprised if Lance Outram, the keeper, gave him a + buck's head to bear; for that is all in the way of his office." + </p> + <p> + "There is no great occasion for your spite at present, Ellesmere," replied + her lady. "My letter says nothing of marriage; but it would appear that + Master Bridgenorth, being to leave this country, has engaged Deborah to + take care of his child; and I am sure I am heartily glad of it, for the + infant's sake." + </p> + <p> + "And I am glad of it for my own," said Ellesmere; "and, indeed, for the + sake of the whole house.—And your ladyship thinks she is not like to + be married to him? Troth, I could never see how he should be such an + idiot; but perhaps she is going to do worse; for she speaks here of coming + to high preferment, and that scarce comes by honest servitude nowadays; + then she writes me about sending her things, as if I were mistress of the + wardrobe to her ladyship—ay, and recommends Master Julian to the + care of my age and experience, forsooth, as if she needed to recommend the + dear little jewel to me; and then, to speak of my age—But I will + bundle away her rags to the Hall, with a witness!" + </p> + <p> + "Do it with all civility," said the lady, "and let Whitaker send her the + wages for which she has served, and a broad-piece over and above; for + though a light-headed young woman, she was kind to the children." + </p> + <p> + "I know who is kind to their servants, madam, and would spoil the best + ever pinned a gown." + </p> + <p> + "I spoiled a good one, Ellesmere, when I spoiled thee," said the lady; + "but tell Mistress Deborah to kiss the little Alice for me, and to offer + my good wishes to Major Bridgenorth, for his temporal and future + happiness." + </p> + <p> + She permitted no observation or reply, but dismissed her attendant, + without entering into farther particulars. + </p> + <p> + When Ellesmere had withdrawn, Lady Peveril began to reflect, with much + feeling of compassion, on the letter of Major Bridgenorth; a person in + whom there were certainly many excellent qualities, but whom a series of + domestic misfortunes, and the increasing gloom of a sincere, yet stern + feeling of devotion, rendered lonely and unhappy; and she had more than + one anxious thought for the happiness of the little Alice, brought up, as + she was likely to be, under such a father. Still the removal of + Bridgenorth was, on the whole, a desirable event; for while he remained at + the Hall, it was but too likely that some accidental collision with Sir + Geoffrey might give rise to a rencontre betwixt them, more fatal than the + last had been. + </p> + <p> + In the meanwhile, she could not help expressing to Doctor Dummerar her + surprise and sorrow, that all which she had done and attempted, to + establish peace and unanimity betwixt the contending factions, had been + perversely fated to turn out the very reverse of what she had aimed at. + </p> + <p> + "But for my unhappy invitation," she said, "Bridgenorth would not have + been at the Castle on the morning which succeeded the feast, would not + have seen the Countess, and would not have incurred the resentment and + opposition of my husband. And but for the King's return, an event which + was so anxiously expected as the termination of all our calamities, + neither the noble lady nor ourselves had been engaged in this new path of + difficulty and danger." + </p> + <p> + "Honoured madam," said Doctor Dummerar, "were the affairs of this world to + be guided implicitly by human wisdom, or were they uniformly to fall out + according to the conjectures of human foresight, events would no longer be + under the domination of that time and chance, which happen unto all men, + since we should, in the one case, work out our own purposes to a + certainty, by our own skill, and in the other, regulate our conduct + according to the views of unerring prescience. But man is, while in this + vale of tears, like an uninstructed bowler, so to speak, who thinks to + attain the jack, by delivering his bowl straight forward upon it, being + ignorant that there is a concealed bias within the spheroid, which will + make it, in all probability, swerve away, and lose the cast." + </p> + <p> + Having spoken this with a sententious air, the Doctor took his + shovel-shaped hat, and went down to the Castle green, to conclude a match + of bowls with Whitaker, which had probably suggested this notable + illustration of the uncertain course of human events. + </p> + <p> + Two days afterwards, Sir Geoffrey arrived. He had waited at Vale Royal + till he heard of the Countess's being safely embarked for Man, and then + had posted homeward to his Castle and Dame Margaret. On his way, he + learned from some of his attendants, the mode in which his lady had + conducted the entertainment which she had given to the neighbourhood at + his order; and notwithstanding the great deference he usually showed in + cases where Lady Peveril was concerned, he heard of her liberality towards + the Presbyterian party with great indignation. + </p> + <p> + "I could have admitted Bridgenorth," he said, "for he always bore him in + neighbourly and kindly fashion till this last career—I could have + endured him, so he would have drunk the King's health, like a true man—but + to bring that snuffling scoundrel Solsgrace, with all his beggarly, + long-eared congregation, to hold a conventicle in my father's house—to + let them domineer it as they listed—why, I would not have permitted + them such liberty, when they held their head the highest! They never, in + the worst of times, found any way into Martindale Castle but what Noll's + cannon made for them; and that they should come and cant there, when good + King Charles is returned—By my hand, Dame Margaret shall hear of + it!" + </p> + <p> + But, notwithstanding these ireful resolutions, resentment altogether + subsided in the honest Knight's breast, when he saw the fair features of + his lady lightened with affectionate joy at his return in safety. As he + took her in his arms and kissed her, he forgave her ere he mentioned her + offence. + </p> + <p> + "Thou hast played the knave with me, Meg," he said, shaking his head, and + smiling at the same time, "and thou knowest in what manner; but I think + thou art true church-woman, and didst only act from silly womanish fancy + of keeping fair with these roguish Roundheads. But let me have no more of + this. I had rather Martindale Castle were again rent by their bullets, + than receive any of the knaves in the way of friendship—I always + except Ralph Bridgenorth of the Hall, if he should come to his senses + again." + </p> + <p> + Lady Peveril was here under the necessity of explaining what she had heard + of Master Bridgenorth—the disappearance of the governante with his + daughter, and placed Bridgenorth's letter in his hand. Sir Geoffrey shook + his head at first, and then laughed extremely at the idea that there was + some little love-intrigue between Bridgenorth and Mistress Deborah. + </p> + <p> + "It is the true end of a dissenter," he said, "to marry his own + maid-servant, or some other person's. Deborah is a good likely wench, and + on the merrier side of thirty, as I should think." + </p> + <p> + "Nay, nay," said the Lady Peveril, "you are as uncharitable as Ellesmere—I + believe it but to be affection to his child." + </p> + <p> + "Pshaw! pshaw!" answered the Knight, "women are eternally thinking of + children; but among men, dame, many one carresses the infant that he may + kiss the child's maid; and where's the wonder or the harm either, if + Bridgenorth should marry the wench? Her father is a substantial yeoman; + his family has had the same farm since Bosworthfield—as good a + pedigree as that of the great-grandson of a Chesterfield brewer, I trow. + But let us hear what he says for himself—I shall spell it out if + there is any roguery in the letter about love and liking, though it might + escape your innocence, Dame Margaret." + </p> + <p> + The Knight of the Peak began to peruse the letter accordingly, but was + much embarrassed by the peculiar language in which it was couched. "What + he means by moving of candlesticks, and breaking down of carved work in + the church, I cannot guess; unless he means to bring back the large silver + candlesticks which my grandsire gave to be placed on the altar at + Martindale Moultrassie; and which his crop-eared friends, like + sacrilegious villains as they are, stole and melted down. And in like + manner, the only breaking I know of, was when they pulled down the rails + of the communion table (for which some of their fingers are hot enough by + this time), and when the brass ornaments were torn down from Peveril + monuments; and that was breaking and removing with a vengeance. However, + dame, the upshot is, that poor Bridgenorth is going to leave the + neighbourhood. I am truly sorry for it, though I never saw him oftener + than once a day, and never spoke to him above two words. But I see how it + is—that little shake by the shoulder sticks in his stomach; and yet, + Meg, I did but lift him out of the saddle as I might have lifted thee into + it, Margaret—I was careful not to hurt him; and I did not think him + so tender in point of honour as to mind such a thing much; but I see + plainly where his sore lies; and I warrant you I will manage that he stays + at the Hall, and that you get back Julian's little companion. Faith, I am + sorry myself at the thought of losing the baby, and of having to choose + another ride when it is not hunting weather, than round by the Hall, with + a word at the window." + </p> + <p> + "I should be very glad, Sir Geoffrey," said the Lady Peveril, "that you + could come to a reconciliation with this worthy man, for such I must hold + Master Bridgenorth to be." + </p> + <p> + "But for his dissenting principles, as good a neighbour as ever lived," + said Sir Geoffrey. + </p> + <p> + "But I scarce see," continued the lady, "any possibility of bringing about + a conclusion so desirable." + </p> + <p> + "Tush, dame," answered the Knight, "thou knowest little of such matters. I + know the foot he halts upon, and you shall see him go as sound as ever." + </p> + <p> + Lady Peveril had, from her sincere affection and sound sense, as good a + right to claim the full confidence of her husband, as any woman in + Derbyshire; and, upon this occasion, to confess the truth, she had more + anxiety to know his purpose than her sense of their mutual and separate + duties permitted her in general to entertain. She could not imagine what + mode of reconciliation with his neighbour, Sir Geoffrey (no very acute + judge of mankind or their peculiarities) could have devised, which might + not be disclosed to her; and she felt some secret anxiety lest the means + resorted to might be so ill chosen as to render the breach rather wider. + But Sir Geoffrey would give no opening for farther inquiry. He had been + long enough colonel of a regiment abroad, to value himself on the right of + absolute command at home; and to all the hints which his lady's ingenuity + could devise and throw out, he only answered, "Patience, Dame Margaret, + patience. This is no case for thy handling. Thou shalt know enough on't + by-and-by, dame.—Go, look to Julian. Will the boy never have done + crying for lack of that little sprout of a Roundhead? But we will have + little Alice back with us in two or three days, and all will be well + again." + </p> + <p> + As the good Knight spoke these words, a post winded his horn in the court, + and a large packet was brought in, addressed to the worshipful Sir + Geoffrey Peveril, Justice of the Peace, and so forth; for he had been + placed in authority as soon as the King's Restoration was put upon a + settled basis. Upon opening the packet, which he did with no small feeling + of importance, he found that it contained the warrant which he had + solicited for replacing Doctor Dummerar in the parish, from which he had + been forcibly ejected during the usurpation. + </p> + <p> + Few incidents could have given more delight to Sir Geoffrey. He could + forgive a stout able-bodied sectary or nonconformist, who enforced his + doctrines in the field by downright blows on the casques and cuirasses of + himself and other Cavaliers. But he remembered with most vindictive + accuracy, the triumphant entrance of Hugh Peters through the breach of his + Castle; and for his sake, without nicely distinguishing betwixt sects or + their teachers, he held all who mounted a pulpit without warrant from the + Church of England—perhaps he might also in private except that of + Rome—to be disturbers of the public tranquillity—seducers of + the congregation from their lawful preachers—instigators of the late + Civil War—and men well disposed to risk the fate of a new one. + </p> + <p> + Then, on the other hand, besides gratifying his dislike to Solsgrace, he + saw much satisfaction in the task of replacing his old friend and + associate in sport and in danger, the worthy Doctor Dummerar, in his + legitimate rights and in the ease and comforts of his vicarage. He + communicated the contents of the packet, with great triumph, to the lady, + who now perceived the sense of the mysterious paragraph in Major + Bridgenorth's letter, concerning the removal of the candlestick, and the + extinction of light and doctrine in the land. She pointed this out to Sir + Geoffrey, and endeavoured to persuade him that a door was now opened to + reconciliation with his neighbour, by executing the commission which he + had received in an easy and moderate manner, after due delay, and with all + respect to the feelings both of Solsgrace and his congregation, which + circumstances admitted of. This, the lady argued, would be doing no injury + whatever to Doctor Dummerar;—nay, might be the means of reconciling + many to his ministry, who might otherwise be disgusted with it for ever, + by the premature expulsion of a favourite preacher. + </p> + <p> + There was much wisdom, as well as moderation, in this advice; and, at + another time, Sir Geoffrey would have sense enough to have adopted it. But + who can act composedly or prudently in the hour of triumph? The ejection + of Mr. Solsgrace was so hastily executed, as to give it some appearance of + persecution; though, more justly considered, it was the restoring of his + predecessor to his legal rights. Solsgrace himself seemed to be desirous + to make his sufferings as manifest as possible. He held out to the last; + and on the Sabbath after he had received intimation of his ejection, + attempted to make his way to the pulpit, as usual, supported by Master + Bridgenorth's attorney, Win-the-Fight, and a few zealous followers. + </p> + <p> + Just as their party came into the churchyard on the one side, Doctor + Dummerar, dressed in full pontificals, in a sort of triumphal procession + accompanied by Peveril of the Peak, Sir Jasper Cranbourne, and other + Cavaliers of distinction, entered at the other. + </p> + <p> + To prevent an actual struggle in the church, the parish officers were sent + to prevent the farther approach of the Presbyterian minister; which was + effected without farther damage than a broken head, inflicted by Roger + Raine, the drunken innkeeper of the Peveril Arms, upon the Presbyterian + attorney of Chesterfield. + </p> + <p> + Unsubdued in spirit, though compelled to retreat by superior force, the + undaunted Mr. Solsgrace retired to the vicarage; where under some legal + pretext which had been started by Mr. Win-the-Fight (in that day unaptly + named), he attempted to maintain himself—bolted gates—barred + windows—and, as report said (though falsely), made provision of + fire-arms to resist the officers. A scene of clamour and scandal + accordingly took place, which being reported to Sir Geoffrey, he came in + person, with some of his attendants carrying arms—forced the + outer-gate and inner-doors of the house; and proceeding to the study, + found no other garrison save the Presbyterian parson, with the attorney, + who gave up possession of the premises, after making protestation against + the violence that had been used. + </p> + <p> + The rabble of the village being by this time all in motion, Sir Geoffrey, + both in prudence and good-nature, saw the propriety of escorting his + prisoners, for so they might be termed, safely through the tumult; and + accordingly conveyed them in person, through much noise and clamour, as + far as the avenue of Moultrassie Hall, which they chose for the place of + their retreat. + </p> + <p> + But the absence of Sir Geoffrey gave the rein to some disorders, which, if + present, he would assuredly have restrained. Some of the minister's books + were torn and flung about as treasonable and seditious trash, by the + zealous parish-officers or their assistants. A quantity of his ale was + drunk up in healths to the King and Peveril of the Peak. And, finally, the + boys, who bore the ex-parson no good-will for his tyrannical interference + with their games at skittles, foot-ball, and so forth, and, moreover, + remembered the unmerciful length of his sermons, dressed up an effigy with + his Geneva gown and band, and his steeple-crowned hat, which they paraded + through the village, and burned on the spot whilom occupied by a stately + Maypole, which Solsgrace had formerly hewed down with his own reverend + hands. + </p> + <p> + Sir Geoffrey was vexed at all this and sent to Mr. Solsgrace, offering + satisfaction for the goods which he had lost; but the Calvinistical divine + replied, "From a thread to a shoe-latchet, I will not take anything that + is thine. Let the shame of the work of thy hands abide with thee." + </p> + <p> + Considerable scandal, indeed, arose against Sir Geoffrey Peveril as having + proceeded with indecent severity and haste upon this occasion; and rumour + took care to make the usual additions to the reality. It was currently + reported, that the desperate Cavalier, Peveril of the Peak, had fallen on + a Presbyterian congregation, while engaged in the peaceable exercise of + religion, with a band of armed men—had slain some, desperately + wounded many more, and finally pursued the preacher to his vicarage which + he burned to the ground. Some alleged the clergyman had perished in the + flames; and the most mitigated report bore, that he had only been able to + escape by disposing his gown, cap, and band, near a window, in such a + manner as to deceive them with the idea of his person being still + surrounded by flames, while he himself fled by the back part of the house. + And although few people believed in the extent of the atrocities thus + imputed to our honest Cavalier, yet still enough of obloquy attached to + him to infer very serious consequences, as the reader will learn at a + future period of our history. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0009" id="link2HCH0009"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IX + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + <i>Bessus</i>.—'Tis a challenge, sir, is it not? + <i>Gentleman</i>.—'Tis an inviting to the field. + —King and No King. +</pre> + <p> + For a day or two after this forcible expulsion from the vicarage, Mr. + Solsgrace continued his residence at Moultrassie Hall, where the natural + melancholy attendant on his situation added to the gloom of the owner of + the mansion. In the morning, the ejected divine made excursions to + different families in the neighbourhood, to whom his ministry had been + acceptable in the days of his prosperity, and from whose grateful + recollections of that period he now found sympathy and consolation. He did + not require to be condoled with, because he was deprived of an easy and + competent maintenance, and thrust out upon the common of life, after he + had reason to suppose he would be no longer liable to such mutations of + fortune. The piety of Mr. Solsgrace was sincere; and if he had many of the + uncharitable prejudices against other sects, which polemical controversy + had generated, and the Civil War brought to a head, he had also that deep + sense of duty, by which enthusiasm is so often dignified, and held his + very life little, if called upon to lay it down in attestation of the + doctrines in which he believed. But he was soon to prepare for leaving the + district which Heaven, he conceived, had assigned to him as his corner of + the vineyard; he was to abandon his flock to the wolf—was to forsake + those with whom he had held sweet counsel in religious communion—was + to leave the recently converted to relapse into false doctrines, and + forsake the wavering, whom his continued cares might have directed into + the right path,—these were of themselves deep causes of sorrow, and + were aggravated, doubtless, by those natural feelings with which all men, + especially those whose duties or habits have confined them to a limited + circle, regard the separation from wonted scenes, and their accustomed + haunts of solitary musing, or social intercourse. + </p> + <p> + There was, indeed, a plan of placing Mr. Solsgrace at the head of a + nonconforming congregation in his present parish, which his followers + would have readily consented to endow with a sufficient revenue. But + although the act for universal conformity was not yet passed, such a + measure was understood to be impending, and there existed a general + opinion among the Presbyterians, that in no hands was it likely to be more + strictly enforced, than in those of Peveril of the Peak. Solsgrace himself + considered not only his personal danger as being considerable,—for, + assuming perhaps more consequence than was actually attached to him or his + productions, he conceived the honest Knight to be his mortal and + determined enemy,—but he also conceived that he should serve the + cause of his Church by absenting himself from Derbyshire. + </p> + <p> + "Less known pastors," he said, "though perhaps more worthy of the name, + may be permitted to assemble the scattered flocks in caverns or in secret + wilds, and to them shall the gleaning of the grapes of Ephraim be better + than the vintage of Abiezer. But I, that have so often carried the banner + forth against the mighty—I, whose tongue hath testified, morning and + evening, like the watchman upon the tower, against Popery, Prelacy, and + the tyrant of the Peak—for me to abide here, were but to bring the + sword of bloody vengeance amongst you, that the shepherd might be smitten, + and the sheep scattered. The shedders of blood have already assailed me, + even within that ground which they themselves call consecrated; and + yourselves have seen the scalp of the righteous broken, as he defended my + cause. Therefore, I will put on my sandals, and gird my loins, and depart + to a far country, and there do as my duty shall call upon me, whether it + be to act or to suffer—to bear testimony at the stake or in the + pulpit." + </p> + <p> + Such were the sentiments which Mr. Solsgrace expressed to his desponding + friends, and which he expatiated upon at more length with Major + Bridgenorth; not failing, with friendly zeal, to rebuke the haste which + the latter had shown to thrust out the hand of fellowship to the Amalekite + woman, whereby he reminded him, "He had been rendered her slave and + bondsman for a season, like Samson, betrayed by Delilah, and might have + remained longer in the house of Dagon, had not Heaven pointed to him a way + out of the snare. Also, it sprung originally from the Major's going up to + feast in the high place of Baal, that he who was the champion of the truth + was stricken down, and put to shame by the enemy, even in the presence of + the host." + </p> + <p> + These objurgations seeming to give some offence to Major Bridgenorth, who + liked, no better than any other man, to hear of his own mishaps, and at + the same time to have them imputed to his own misconduct, the worthy + divine proceeded to take shame to himself for his own sinful compliance in + that matter; for to the vengeance justly due for that unhappy dinner at + Martindale Castle (which was, he said, a crying of peace when there was no + peace, and a dwelling in the tents of sin), he imputed his ejection from + his living, with the destruction of some of his most pithy and highly + prized volumes of divinity, with the loss of his cap, gown, and band, and + a double hogshead of choice Derby ale. + </p> + <p> + The mind of Major Bridgenorth was strongly tinged with devotional feeling, + which his late misfortunes had rendered more deep and solemn; and it is + therefore no wonder, that, when he heard these arguments urged again and + again, by a pastor whom he so much respected, and who was now a confessor + in the cause of their joint faith, he began to look back with disapproval + on his own conduct, and to suspect that he had permitted himself to be + seduced by gratitude towards Lady Peveril, and by her special arguments in + favour of a mutual and tolerating liberality of sentiments, into an action + which had a tendency to compromise his religious and political principles. + </p> + <p> + One morning, as Major Bridgenorth had wearied himself with several details + respecting the arrangement of his affairs, he was reposing in the leathern + easy-chair, beside the latticed window, a posture which, by natural + association, recalled to him the memory of former times, and the feelings + with which he was wont to expect the recurring visit of Sir Geoffrey, who + brought him news of his child's welfare,—"Surely," he said, + thinking, as it were, aloud, "there was no sin in the kindness with which + I then regarded that man." + </p> + <p> + Solsgrace, who was in the apartment, and guessed what passed through his + friend's mind, acquainted as he was with every point of his history, + replied—"When God caused Elijah to be fed by ravens, while hiding at + the brook Cherith, we hear not of his fondling the unclean birds, whom, + contrary to their ravening nature, a miracle compelled to minister to + him." + </p> + <p> + "It may be so," answered Bridgenorth, "yet the flap of their wings must + have been gracious in the ear of the famished prophet, like the tread of + his horse in mine. The ravens, doubtless, resumed their nature when the + season was passed, and even so it has fared with him.—Hark!" he + exclaimed, starting, "I hear his horse's hoof tramp even now." + </p> + <p> + It was seldom that the echoes of that silent house and courtyard were + awakened by the trampling of horses, but such was now the case. + </p> + <p> + Both Bridgenorth and Solsgrace were surprised at the sound, and even + disposed to anticipate some farther oppression on the part of the + government, when the Major's old servant introduced, with little ceremony + (for his manners were nearly as plain as his master's), a tall gentleman + on the farther side of middle life, whose vest and cloak, long hair, + slouched hat and drooping feather, announced him as a Cavalier. He bowed + formally, but courteously, to both gentlemen, and said, that he was "Sir + Jasper Cranbourne, charged with an especial message to Master Ralph + Bridgenorth of Moultrassie Hall, by his honourable friend Sir Geoffrey + Peveril of the Peak, and that he requested to know whether Master + Bridgenorth would be pleased to receive his acquittal of commission here + or elsewhere." + </p> + <p> + "Anything which Sir Geoffrey Peveril can have to say to me," said Major + Bridgenorth, "may be told instantly, and before my friend, from whom I + have no secrets." + </p> + <p> + "The presence of any other friend were, instead of being objectionable, + the thing in the world most to be desired," said Sir Jasper, after a + moment's hesitation, and looking at Mr. Solsgrace; "but this gentleman + seems to be a sort of clergyman." + </p> + <p> + "I am not conscious of any secrets," answered Bridgenorth, "nor do I + desire to have any, in which a clergyman is unfitting confidant." + </p> + <p> + "At your pleasure," replied Sir Jasper. "The confidence, for aught I know, + may be well enough chosen, for your divines (always under your favour) + have proved no enemies to such matters as I am to treat with you upon." + </p> + <p> + "Proceed, sir," answered Mr. Bridgenorth gravely; "and I pray you to be + seated, unless it is rather your pleasure to stand." + </p> + <p> + "I must, in the first place, deliver myself of my small commission," + answered Sir Jasper, drawing himself up; "and it will be after I have seen + the reception thereof, that I shall know whether I am, or am not, to sit + down at Moultrassie Hall.—Sir Geoffrey Peveril, Master Bridgenorth, + hath carefully considered with himself the unhappy circumstances which at + present separate you as neighbours. And he remembers many passages in + former times—I speak his very words—which incline him to do + all that can possibly consist with his honour, to wipe out unkindness + between you; and for this desirable object, he is willing to condescend in + a degree, which, as you could not have expected, it will no doubt give you + great pleasure to learn." + </p> + <p> + "Allow me to say, Sir Jasper," said Bridgenorth, "that this is + unnecessary. I have made no complaints of Sir Geoffrey—I have + required no submission from him—I am about to leave this country; + and what affairs we may have together, can be as well settled by others as + by ourselves." + </p> + <p> + "In a word," said the divine, "the worthy Major Bridgenorth hath had + enough of trafficking with the ungodly, and will no longer, on any terms, + consort with them." + </p> + <p> + "Gentleman both," said Sir Jasper, with imperturbable politeness, bowing, + "you greatly mistake the tenor of my commission, which you will do as well + to hear out, before making any reply to it.—I think, Master + Bridgenorth, you cannot but remember your letter to the Lady Peveril, of + which I have here a rough copy, in which you complain of the hard measure + which you have received at Sir Geoffrey's hand, and, in particular, when + he pulled you from your horse at or near Hartley-nick. Now, Sir Geoffrey + thinks so well of you, as to believe, that, were it not for the wide + difference betwixt his descent and rank and your own, you would have + sought to bring this matter to a gentleman-like arbitrament, as the only + mode whereby your stain may be honourably wiped away. Wherefore, in this + slight note, he gives you, in his generosity, the offer of what you, in + your modesty (for to nothing else does he impute your acquiescence), have + declined to demand of him. And withal, I bring you the measure of his + weapon; and when you have accepted the cartel which I now offer you, I + shall be ready to settle the time, place, and other circumstances of your + meeting." + </p> + <p> + "And I," said Solsgrace, with a solemn voice, "should the Author of Evil + tempt my friend to accept of so bloodthirsty a proposal, would be the + first to pronounce against him sentence of the greater excommunication." + </p> + <p> + "It is not you whom I address, reverend sir," replied the envoy; "your + interest, not unnaturally, may determine you to be more anxious about your + patron's life than about his honour. I must know, from himself, to which + <i>he</i> is disposed to give the preference." + </p> + <p> + So saying, and with a graceful bow, he again tendered the challenge to + Major Bridgenorth. There was obviously a struggle in that gentleman's + bosom, between the suggestions of human honour and those of religious + principle; but the latter prevailed. He calmly waived receiving the paper + which Sir Jasper offered to him, and spoke to the following purpose:—"It + may not be known to you, Sir Jasper, that since the general pouring out of + Christian light upon this kingdom, many solid men have been led to doubt + whether the shedding human blood by the hand of a fellow-creature be in <i>any</i> + respect justifiable. And although this rule appears to me to be scarcely + applicable to our state in this stage of trial, seeing that such + non-resistance, if general, would surrender our civil and religious rights + into the hands of whatsoever daring tyrants might usurp the same; yet I + am, and have been, inclined to limit the use of carnal arms to the case of + necessary self-defence, whether such regards our own person, or the + protection of our country against invasion; or of our rights of property, + and the freedom of our laws and of our conscience, against usurping power. + And as I have never shown myself unwilling to draw my sword in any of the + latter causes, so you shall excuse my suffering it now to remain in the + scabbard, when, having sustained a grievous injury, the man who inflicted + it summons me to combat, either upon an idle punctilio, or, as is more + likely, in mere bravado." + </p> + <p> + "I have heard you with patience," said Sir Jasper; "and now, Master + Bridgenorth, take it not amiss, if I beseech you to bethink yourself + better on this matter. I vow to Heaven, sir, that your honour lies + a-bleeding; and that in condescending to afford you this fair meeting, and + thereby giving you some chance to stop its wounds, Sir Geoffrey has been + moved by a tender sense of your condition, and an earnest wish to redeem + your dishonour. And it will be but the crossing of your blade with his + honoured sword for the space of some few minutes, and you will either live + or die a noble and honoured gentleman. Besides, that the Knight's + exquisite skill of fence may enable him, as his good-nature will incline + him, to disarm you with some flesh wound, little to the damage of your + person, and greatly to the benefit of your reputation." + </p> + <p> + "The tender mercies of the wicked," said Master Solsgrace emphatically, by + way of commenting on this speech, which Sir Jasper had uttered very + pathetically, "are cruel." + </p> + <p> + "I pray to have no farther interruption from your reverence," said Sir + Jasper; "especially as I think this affair very little concerns you; and I + entreat that you permit me to discharge myself regularly of my commission + from my worthy friend." + </p> + <p> + So saying, he took his sheathed rapier from his belt, and passing the + point through the silk thread which secured the letter, he once more, and + literally at sword point, gracefully tendered it to Major Bridgenorth who + again waved it aside, though colouring deeply at the same time, as if he + was putting a marked constraint upon himself—drew back, and made Sir + Jasper Cranbourne a deep bow. + </p> + <p> + "Since it is to be thus," said Sir Jasper, "I must myself do violence to + the seal of Sir Geoffrey's letter, and read it to you, that I may fully + acquit myself of the charge entrusted to me, and make you, Master + Bridgenorth, equally aware of the generous intentions of Sir Geoffrey on + your behalf." + </p> + <p> + "If," said Major Bridgenorth, "the contents of the letter be to no other + purpose than you have intimated, methinks farther ceremony is unnecessary + on this occasion, as I have already taken my course." + </p> + <p> + "Nevertheless," said Sir Jasper, breaking open the letter, "it is fitting + that I read to you the letter of my worshipful friend." And he read + accordingly as follows:— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "<i>For the worthy hands of Ralph Bridgenorth, Esquire, of + Moultrassie Hall—These:</i> + + "By the honoured conveyance of the Worshipful Sir Jasper + Cranbourne, Knight, of Long-Mallington. + + "Master Bridgenorth,—We have been given to understand by your + letter to our loving wife, Dame Margaret Peveril, that you hold + hard construction of certain passages betwixt you and I, of a late + date, as if your honour should have been, in some sort, prejudiced + by what then took place. And although you have not thought it fit + to have direct recourse to me, to request such satisfaction as is + due from one gentleman of condition to another, yet I am fully + minded that this proceeds only from modesty, arising out of the + distinction of our degree, and from no lack of that courage which + you have heretofore displayed, I would I could say in a good + cause. Wherefore I am purposed to give you, by my friend, Sir + Jasper Cranbourne, a meeting, for the sake of doing that which + doubtless you entirely long for. Sir Jasper will deliver you the + length of my weapon, and appoint circumstances and an hour for our + meeting; which, whether early or late—on foot or horseback—with + rapier or backsword—I refer to yourself, with all the other + privileges of a challenged person; only desiring, that if you + decline to match my weapon, you will send me forthwith the length + and breadth of your own. And nothing doubting that the issue of + this meeting must needs be to end, in one way or other, all + unkindness betwixt two near neighbours,—I remain, your humble + servant to command, + "Geoffrey Peveril of the Peak." + + "Given from my poor house of Martindale Castle, this same ____ of + ____, sixteen hundred and sixty." +</pre> + <p> + "Bear back my respects to Sir Geoffrey Peveril," said Major Bridgenorth. + "According to his light, his meaning may be fair towards me; but tell him + that our quarrel had its rise in his own wilful aggression towards me; and + that though I wish to be in charity with all mankind, I am not so wedded + to his friendship as to break the laws of God, and run the risk of + suffering or committing murder, in order to regain it. And for you, sir, + methinks your advanced years and past misfortunes might teach you the + folly of coming on such idle errands." + </p> + <p> + "I shall do your message, Master Ralph Bridgenorth," said Sir Jasper; "and + shall then endeavour to forget your name, as a sound unfit to be + pronounced, or even remembered, by a man of honour. In the meanwhile, in + return for your uncivil advice, be pleased to accept of mine; namely, that + as your religion prevents your giving a gentleman satisfaction, it ought + to make you very cautious of offering him provocation." + </p> + <p> + So saying, and with a look of haughty scorn, first at the Major, and then + at the divine, the envoy of Sir Geoffrey put his hat on his head, replaced + his rapier in its belt, and left the apartment. In a few minutes + afterwards, the tread of his horse died away at a considerable distance. + </p> + <p> + Bridgenorth had held his hand upon his brow ever since his departure, and + a tear of anger and shame was on his face as he raised it when the sound + was heard no more. "He carries this answer to Martindale Castle," he said. + "Men will hereafter think of me as a whipped, beaten, dishonourable + fellow, whom every one may baffle and insult at their pleasure. It is well + I am leaving the house of my father." + </p> + <p> + Master Solsgrace approached his friend with much sympathy, and grasped him + by the hand. "Noble brother," he said, with unwonted kindness of manner, + "though a man of peace, I can judge what this sacrifice hath cost to thy + manly spirit. But God will not have from us an imperfect obedience. We + must not, like Ananias and Sapphira, reserve behind some darling lust, + some favourite sin, while we pretend to make sacrifice of our worldly + affections. What avails it to say that we have but secreted a little + matter, if the slightest remnant of the accursed thing remain hidden in + our tent? Would it be a defence in thy prayers to say, I have not murdered + this man for the lucre of gain, like a robber—nor for the + acquisition of power, like a tyrant,—nor for the gratification of + revenge, like a darkened savage; but because the imperious voice of + worldly honour said, 'Go forth—kill or be killed—is it not I + that have sent thee?' Bethink thee, my worthy friend, how thou couldst + frame such a vindication in thy prayers; and if thou art forced to tremble + at the blasphemy of such an excuse, remember in thy prayers the thanks due + to Heaven, which enabled thee to resist the strong temptation." + </p> + <p> + "Reverend and dear friend," answered Bridgenorth, "I feel that you speak + the truth. Bitterer, indeed, and harder, to the old Adam, is the text + which ordains him to suffer shame, than that which bids him to do + valiantly for the truth. But happy am I that my path through the + wilderness of this world will, for some space at least, be along with one, + whose zeal and friendship are so active to support me when I am fainting + in the way." + </p> + <p> + While the inhabitants of Moultrassie Hall thus communicated together upon + the purport of Sir Jasper Cranbourne's visit, that worthy knight greatly + excited the surprise of Sir Geoffrey Peveril, by reporting the manner in + which his embassy had been received. + </p> + <p> + "I took him for a man of other metal," said Sir Geoffrey;—"nay, I + would have sworn it, had any one asked my testimony. But there is no + making a silken purse out of a sow's ear. I have done a folly for him that + I will never do for another: and that is, to think a Presbyterian would + fight without his preacher's permission. Give them a two hours' sermon, + and let them howl a psalm to a tune that is worse than the cries of a + flogged hound, and the villains will lay on like threshers; but for a + calm, cool, gentleman-like turn upon the sod, hand to hand, in a + neighbourly way, they have not honour enough to undertake it. But enough + of our crop-eared cur of a neighbour.—Sir Jasper, you will tarry + with us to dine, and see how Dame Margaret's kitchen smokes; and after + dinner I will show you a long-winged falcon fly. She is not mine, but the + Countess's, who brought her from London on her fist almost the whole way, + for all the haste she was in, and left her with me to keep the perch for a + season." + </p> + <p> + This match was soon arranged, and Dame Margaret overheard the good + Knight's resentment mutter itself off, with those feelings with which we + listen to the last growling of the thunderstorm; which, as the black cloud + sinks beneath the hill, at once assures us that there has been danger, and + that the peril is over. She could not, indeed, but marvel in her own mind + at the singular path of reconciliation with his neighbour which her + husband had, with so much confidence, and in the actual sincerity of his + goodwill to Mr. Bridgenorth, attempted to open; and she blessed God + internally that it had not terminated in bloodshed. But these reflections + she locked carefully within her own bosom, well knowing that they referred + to subjects in which the Knight of the Peak would neither permit his + sagacity to be called in question, nor his will to be controlled. + </p> + <p> + The progress of the history hath hitherto been slow; but after this period + so little matter worth of mark occurred at Martindale, that we must hurry + over hastily the transactions of several years. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0010" id="link2HCH0010"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER X + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + <i>Cleopatra.</i>—Give me to drink mandragora, + That I may sleep away this gap of time. + —Antony and Cleopatra. +</pre> + <p> + There passed, as we hinted at the conclusion of the last chapter, four or + five years after the period we have dilated upon; the events of which + scarcely require to be discussed, so far as our present purpose is + concerned, in as many lines. The Knight and his Lady continued to reside + at their Castle—she, with prudence and with patience, endeavouring + to repair the damages which the Civil Wars had inflicted upon their + fortune; and murmuring a little when her plans of economy were interrupted + by the liberal hospitality, which was her husband's principal expense, and + to which he was attached, not only from his own English heartiness of + disposition, but from ideas of maintaining the dignity of his ancestry—no + less remarkable, according to the tradition of their buttery, kitchen, and + cellar, for the fat beeves which they roasted, and the mighty ale which + they brewed, than for their extensive estates, and the number of their + retainers. + </p> + <p> + The world, however, upon the whole, went happily and easily with the + worthy couple. Sir Geoffrey's debt to his neighbour Bridgenorth continued, + it is true, unabated; but he was the only creditor upon the Martindale + estate—all others being paid off. It would have been most desirable + that this encumbrance also should be cleared, and it was the great object + of Dame Margaret's economy to effect the discharge; for although interest + was regularly settled with Master Win-the-Fight, the Chesterfield + attorney, yet the principal sum, which was a large one, might be called + for at an inconvenient time. The man, too, was gloomy, important, and + mysterious, and always seemed as if he was thinking upon his broken head + in the churchyard of Martindale-cum-Moultrassie. + </p> + <p> + Dame Margaret sometimes transacted the necessary business with him in + person; and when he came to the Castle on these occasions, she thought she + saw a malicious and disobliging expression in his manner and countenance. + Yet his actual conduct was not only fair, but liberal; for indulgence was + given, in the way of delay of payment, whenever circumstances rendered it + necessary to the debtor to require it. It seemed to Lady Peveril that the + agent, in such cases, was acting under the strict orders of his absent + employer, concerning whose welfare she could not help feeling a certain + anxiety. + </p> + <p> + Shortly after the failure of the singular negotiation for attaining peace + by combat, which Peveril had attempted to open with Major Bridgenorth, + that gentleman left his seat of Moultrassie Hall in the care of his old + housekeeper, and departed, no one knew whither, having in company with him + his daughter Alice and Mrs. Deborah Debbitch, now formally installed in + all the duties of a governante; to these was added the Reverend Master + Solsgrace. For some time public rumour persisted in asserting, that Major + Bridgenorth had only retreated to a distant part of the country for a + season, to achieve his supposed purpose of marrying Mrs. Deborah, and of + letting the news be cold, and the laugh of the neighbourhood be ended, ere + he brought her down as mistress of Moultrassie Hall. This rumour died + away; and it was then affirmed, that he had removed to foreign parts, to + ensure the continuance of health in so delicate a constitution as that of + little Alice. But when the Major's dread of Popery was remembered, + together with the still deeper antipathies of worthy Master Nehemiah + Solsgrace, it was resolved unanimously, that nothing less than what they + might deem a fair chance of converting the Pope would have induced the + parties to trust themselves within Catholic dominions. The most prevailing + opinion was, that they had gone to New England, the refuge then of many + whom too intimate concern with the affairs of the late times, or the + desire of enjoying uncontrolled freedom of conscience, had induced to + emigrate from Britain. + </p> + <p> + Lady Peveril could not help entertaining a vague idea, that Bridgenorth + was not so distant. The extreme order in which everything was maintained + at Moultrassie Hall, seemed—no disparagement to the care of Dame + Dickens the housekeeper, and the other persons engaged—to argue, + that the master's eye was not so very far off, but that its occasional + inspection might be apprehended. It is true, that neither the domestics + nor the attorney answered any questions respecting the residence of Master + Bridgenorth; but there was an air of mystery about them when interrogated, + that seemed to argue more than met the ear. + </p> + <p> + About five years after Master Bridgenorth had left the country, a singular + incident took place. Sir Geoffrey was absent at the Chesterfield races, + and Lady Peveril, who was in the habit of walking around every part of the + neighbourhood unattended, or only accompanied by Ellesmere, or her little + boy, had gone down one evening upon a charitable errand to a solitary hut, + whose inhabitant lay sick of a fever, which was supposed to be infectious. + Lady Peveril never allowed apprehensions of this kind to stop "devoted + charitable deeds;" but she did not choose to expose either her son or her + attendant to the risk which she herself, in some confidence that she knew + precautions for escaping the danger, did not hesitate to incur. + </p> + <p> + Lady Peveril had set out at a late hour in the evening, and the way proved + longer than she expected—several circumstances also occurred to + detain her at the hut of her patient. It was a broad autumn moonlight, + when she prepared to return homeward through the broken glades and upland + which divided her from the Castle. This she considered as a matter of very + little importance, in so quiet and sequestered a country, where the road + lay chiefly through her own domains, especially as she had a lad about + fifteen years old, the son of her patient, to escort her on the way. The + distance was better than two miles, but might be considerably abridged by + passing through an avenue belonging to the estate of Moultrassie Hall, + which she had avoided as she came, not from the ridiculous rumours which + pronounced it to be haunted, but because her husband was much displeased + when any attempt was made to render the walks of the Castle and Hall + common to the inhabitants of both. The good lady, in consideration, + perhaps, of extensive latitude allowed to her in the more important + concerns of the family, made a point of never interfering with her + husband's whims or prejudices; and it is a compromise which we would + heartily recommend to all managing matrons of our acquaintance; for it is + surprising how much real power will be cheerfully resigned to the fair + sex, for the pleasure of being allowed to ride one's hobby in peace and + quiet. + </p> + <p> + Upon the present occasion, however, although the Dobby's Walk[*] was + within the inhabited domains of the Hall, the Lady Peveril determined to + avail herself of it, for the purpose of shortening her road home, and she + directed her steps accordingly. But when the peasant-boy, her companion, + who had hitherto followed her, whistling cheerily, with a hedge-bill in + his hand, and his hat on one side, perceived that she turned to the stile + which entered to the Dobby's Walk, he showed symptoms of great fear, and + at length coming to the lady's side, petitioned her, in a whimpering tone,—"Don't + ye now—don't ye now, my lady, don't ye go yonder." + </p> + <p> + [*] Dobby, an old English name for goblin. + </p> + <p> + Lady Peveril, observing that his teeth chattered in his head, and that his + whole person exhibited great signs of terror, began to recollect the + report, that the first Squire of Moultrassie, the brewer of Chesterfield, + who had brought the estate, and then died of melancholy for lack of + something to do (and, as was said, not without suspicions of suicide), was + supposed to walk in this sequestered avenue, accompanied by a large + headless mastiff, which, when he was alive, was a particular favourite of + the ex-brewer. To have expected any protection from her escort, in the + condition to which superstitious fear had reduced him, would have been + truly a hopeless trust; and Lady Peveril, who was not apprehensive of any + danger, thought there would be great cruelty in dragging the cowardly boy + into a scene which he regarded with so much apprehension. She gave him, + therefore, a silver piece, and permitted him to return. The latter boon + seemed even more acceptable than the first; for ere she could return the + purse into her pocket, she heard the wooden clogs of her bold convoy in + full retreat, by the way from whence they came. + </p> + <p> + Smiling within herself at the fear she esteemed so ludicrous, Lady Peveril + ascended the stile, and was soon hidden from the broad light of the + moonbeams, by the numerous and entangled boughs of the huge elms, which, + meeting from either side, totally overarched the old avenue. The scene was + calculated to excite solemn thoughts; and the distant glimmer of a light + from one of the numerous casements in the front of Moultrassie Hall, which + lay at some distance, was calculated to make them even melancholy. She + thought of the fate of that family—of the deceased Mrs. Bridgenorth, + with whom she had often walked in this very avenue, and who, though a + woman of no high parts or accomplishments, had always testified the + deepest respect, and the most earnest gratitude, for such notice as she + had shown to her. She thought of her blighted hopes—her premature + death—the despair of her self-banished husband—the uncertain + fate of their orphan child, for whom she felt, even at this distance of + time, some touch of a mother's affection. + </p> + <p> + Upon such sad subjects her thoughts were turned, when, just as she + attained the middle of the avenue, the imperfect and checkered light which + found its way through the silvan archway, showed her something which + resembled the figure of a man. Lady Peveril paused a moment, but instantly + advanced;—her bosom, perhaps, gave one startled throb, as a debt to + the superstitious belief of the times, but she instantly repelled the + thought of supernatural appearances. From those that were merely mortal, + she had nothing to fear. A marauder on the game was the worst character + whom she was likely to encounter; and he would be sure to hide himself + from her observation. She advanced, accordingly, steadily; and, as she did + so, had the satisfaction to observe that the figure, as she expected, gave + place to her, and glided away amongst the trees on the left-hand side of + the avenue. As she passed the spot on which the form had been so lately + visible, and bethought herself that this wanderer of the night might, nay + must, be in her vicinity, her resolution could not prevent her mending her + pace, and that with so little precaution, that, stumbling over the limb of + a tree, which, twisted off by a late tempest, still lay in the avenue, she + fell, and, as she fell, screamed aloud. A strong hand in a moment + afterwards added to her fears by assisting her to rise, and a voice, to + whose accents she was not a stranger, though they had been long unheard, + said, "Is it not you, Lady Peveril?" + </p> + <p> + "It is I," said she, commanding her astonishment and fear; "and if my ear + deceive me not, I speak to Master Bridgenorth." + </p> + <p> + "I was that man," said he, "while oppression left me a name." + </p> + <p> + He spoke nothing more, but continued to walk beside her for a minute or + two in silence. She felt her situation embarrassing; and to divest it of + that feeling, as well as out of real interest in the question, she asked + him, "How her god-daughter Alice now was?" + </p> + <p> + "Of god-daughter, madam," answered Major Bridgenorth, "I know nothing; + that being one of the names which have been introduced, to the corruption + and pollution of God's ordinances. The infant who owed to your ladyship + (so called) her escape from disease and death, is a healthy and thriving + girl, as I am given to understand by those in whose charge she is lodged, + for I have not lately seen her. And it is even the recollection of these + passages, which in a manner impelled me, alarmed also by your fall, to + offer myself to you at this time and mode, which in other respects is no + way consistent with my present safety." + </p> + <p> + "With your safety, Master Bridgenorth?" said the Lady Peveril; "surely, I + could never have thought that it was in danger!" + </p> + <p> + "You have some news, then, yet to learn, madam," said Major Bridgenorth; + "but you will hear in the course of tomorrow, reasons why I dare not + appear openly in the neighbourhood of my own property, and wherefore there + is small judgment in committing the knowledge of my present residence to + any one connected with Martindale Castle." + </p> + <p> + "Master Bridgenorth," said the lady, "you were in former times prudent and + cautious—I hope you have been misled by no hasty impression—by + no rash scheme—I hope——" + </p> + <p> + "Pardon my interrupting you, madam," said Bridgenorth. "I have indeed been + changed—ay, my very heart within me hath been changed. In the times + to which your ladyship (so called) thinks proper to refer, I was a man of + this world—bestowing on it all my thoughts—all my actions, + save formal observances—little deeming what was the duty of a + Christian man, and how far his self-denial ought to extend—even unto + his giving all as if he gave nothing. Hence I thought chiefly on carnal + things—on the adding of field to field, and wealth to wealth—of + balancing between party and party—securing a friend here, without + losing a friend there—But Heaven smote me for my apostasy, the + rather that I abused the name of religion, as a self-seeker, and a most + blinded and carnal will-worshipper—But I thank Him who hath at + length brought me out of Egypt." + </p> + <p> + In our day—although we have many instances of enthusiasm among us—we + might still suspect one who avowed it thus suddenly and broadly of + hypocrisy, or of insanity; but according to the fashion of the times, such + opinions as those which Bridgenorth expressed were openly pleaded, as the + ruling motives of men's actions. The sagacious Vane—the brave and + skilful Harrison—were men who acted avowedly under the influence of + such. Lady Peveril, therefore, was more grieved than surprised at the + language she heard Major Bridgenorth use, and reasonably concluded that + the society and circumstances in which he might lately have been engaged, + had blown into a flame the spark of eccentricity which always smouldered + in his bosom. This was the more probable, considering that he was + melancholy by constitution and descent—that he had been unfortunate + in several particulars—and that no passion is more easily nursed by + indulgence, than the species of enthusiasm of which he now showed tokens. + She therefore answered him by calmly hoping, "That the expression of his + sentiments had not involved him in suspicion or in danger." + </p> + <p> + "In suspicion, madam?" answered the Major;—"for I cannot forbear + giving to you, such is the strength of habit, one of those idle titles by + which we poor potsherds are wont, in our pride, to denominate each other—I + walk not only in suspicion, but in that degree of danger, that, were your + husband to meet me at this instant—me, a native Englishman, treading + on my own lands—I have no doubt he would do his best to offer me to + the Moloch of Roman superstition, who now rages abroad for victims among + God's people." + </p> + <p> + "You surprise me by your language, Major Bridgenorth," said the lady, who + now felt rather anxious to be relieved from his company, and with that + purpose walked on somewhat hastily. He mended his pace, however, and kept + close by her side. + </p> + <p> + "Know you not," said he, "that Satan hath come down upon earth with great + wrath, because his time is short? The next heir to the crown is an avowed + Papist; and who dare assert, save sycophants and time-servers, that he who + wears it is not equally ready to stoop to Rome, were he not kept in awe by + a few noble spirits in the Commons' House? You believe not this—yet + in my solitary and midnight walks, when I thought on your kindness to the + dead and to the living, it was my prayer that I might have the means + granted to warn you—and lo! Heaven hath heard me." + </p> + <p> + "What I was while in the gall of bitterness and in the bond of iniquity, + it signifies not to recall," answered he. "I was then like to Gallio, who + cared for none of these things. I doted on creature comforts—I clung + to worldly honour and repute—my thoughts were earthward—or + those I turned to Heaven were cold, formal, pharisaical meditations—I + brought nothing to the altar save straw and stubble. Heaven saw need to + chastise me in love—I was stript of all I clung to on earth—my + worldly honour was torn from me—I went forth an exile from the home + of my fathers, a deprived and desolate man—a baffled, and beaten, + and dishonoured man. But who shall find out the ways of Providence? Such + were the means by which I was chosen forth as a champion for the truth—holding + my life as nothing, if thereby that may be advanced. But this was not what + I wished to speak of. Thou hast saved the earthly life of my child—let + me save the eternal welfare of yours." + </p> + <p> + Lady Peveril was silent. They were now approaching the point where the + avenue terminated in a communication with a public road, or rather + pathway, running through an unenclosed common field; this the lady had to + prosecute for a little way, until a turn of the path gave her admittance + into the Park of Martindale. She now felt sincerely anxious to be in the + open moonshine, and avoided reply to Bridgenorth that she might make the + more haste. But as they reached the junction of the avenue and the public + road, he laid his hand on her arm, and commanded rather than requested her + to stop. She obeyed. He pointed to a huge oak, of the largest size, which + grew on the summit of a knoll in the open ground which terminated the + avenue, and was exactly so placed as to serve for a termination to the + vista. The moonshine without the avenue was so strong, that, amidst the + flood of light which it poured on the venerable tree, they could easily + discover, from the shattered state of the boughs on one side, that it had + suffered damage from lightning. "Remember you," he said, "when we last + looked together on that tree? I had ridden from London, and brought with + me a protection from the committee for your husband; and as I passed the + spot—here on this spot where we now stand, you stood with my lost + Alice—two—the last two of my beloved infants gambolled before + you. I leaped from my horse—to her I was a husband—to those a + father—to you a welcome and revered protector—What am I now to + any one?" He pressed his hand on his brow, and groaned in agony of spirit. + </p> + <p> + It was not in the Lady Peveril's nature to hear sorrow without an attempt + at consolation. "Master Bridgenorth," she said, "I blame no man's creed, + while I believe and follow my own; and I rejoice that in yours you have + sought consolation for temporal afflictions. But does not every Christian + creed teach us alike, that affliction should soften our heart?" + </p> + <p> + "Ay, woman," said Bridgenorth sternly, "as the lightning which shattered + yonder oak hath softened its trunk. No; the seared wood is the fitter for + the use of the workmen—the hardened and the dried-up heart is that + which can best bear the task imposed by these dismal times. God and man + will no longer endure the unbridled profligacy of the dissolute—the + scoffing of the profane—the contempt of the divine laws—the + infraction of human rights. The times demand righters and avengers, and + there will be no want of them." + </p> + <p> + "I deny not the existence of much evil," said Lady Peveril, compelling + herself to answer, and beginning at the same time to walk forward; "and + from hearsay, though not, I thank Heaven, from observation, I am convinced + of the wild debauchery of the times. But let us trust it may be corrected + without such violent remedies as you hint at. Surely the ruin of a second + civil war—though I trust your thoughts go not that dreadful length—were + at best a desperate alternative." + </p> + <p> + "Sharp, but sure," replied Bridgenorth. "The blood of the Paschal lamb + chased away the destroying angel—the sacrifices offered on the + threshing-floor of Araunah, stayed the pestilence. Fire and sword are + severe remedies, but they pure and purify." + </p> + <p> + "Alas! Major Bridgenorth," said the lady, "wise and moderate in your + youth, can you have adopted in your advanced life the thoughts and + language of those whom you yourself beheld drive themselves and the nation + to the brink of ruin?" + </p> + <p> + "I know not what I then was—you know not what I now am," he replied, + and suddenly broke off; for they even then came forth into the open light, + and it seemed as if, feeling himself under the lady's eye, he was disposed + to soften his tone and his language. + </p> + <p> + At the first distinct view which she had of his person, she was aware that + he was armed with a short sword, a poniard, and pistols at his belt—precautions + very unusual for a man who formerly had seldom, and only on days of + ceremony, carried a walking rapier, though such was the habitual and + constant practice of gentlemen of his station in life. There seemed also + something of more stern determination than usual in his air, which indeed + had always been rather sullen than affable; and ere she could repress the + sentiment, she could not help saying, "Master Bridgenorth, you are indeed + changed." + </p> + <p> + "You see but the outward man," he replied; "the change within is yet + deeper. But it was not of myself that I desired to talk—I have + already said, that as you have preserved my child from the darkness of the + grave, I would willingly preserve yours from that more utter darkness, + which, I fear, hath involved the path and walks of his father." + </p> + <p> + "I must not hear this of Sir Geoffrey," said the Lady Peveril; "I must bid + you farewell for the present; and when we again meet at a more suitable + time, I will at least listen to your advice concerning Julian, although I + should not perhaps incline to it." + </p> + <p> + "That more suitable time may never come," replied Bridgenorth. "Time + wanes, eternity draws nigh. Hearken! it is said to be your purpose to send + the young Julian to be bred up in yonder bloody island, under the hand of + your kinswoman, that cruel murderess, by whom was done to death a man more + worthy of vital existence than any that she can boast among her vaunted + ancestry. These are current tidings—Are they true?" + </p> + <p> + "I do not blame you, Master Bridgenorth, for thinking harshly of my cousin + of Derby," said Lady Peveril; "nor do I altogether vindicate the rash + action of which she hath been guilty. Nevertheless, in her habitation, it + is my husband's opinion and my own, that Julian may be trained in the + studies and accomplishments becoming his rank, along with the young Earl + of Derby." + </p> + <p> + "Under the curse of God, and the blessing of the Pope of Rome," said + Bridgenorth. "You, lady, so quick-sighted in matters of earthly prudence, + are you blind to the gigantic pace at which Rome is moving to regain this + country, once the richest gem in her usurped tiara? The old are seduced by + gold—the youth by pleasure—the weak by flattery—cowards + by fear—and the courageous by ambition. A thousand baits for each + taste, and each bait concealing the same deadly hook." + </p> + <p> + "I am well aware, Master Bridgenorth," said Lady Peveril, "that my + kinswoman is a Catholic;[*] but her son is educated in the Church of + England's principles, agreeably to the command of her deceased husband." + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [*] I have elsewhere noticed that this is a deviation from + the truth Charlotte, Countess of Derby, was a Huguenot. +</pre> + <p> + "Is it likely," answered Bridgenorth, "that she, who fears not shedding + the blood of the righteous, whether on the field or scaffold, will regard + the sanction of her promise when her religion bids her break it? Or, if + she does, what shall your son be the better, if he remain in the mire of + his father? What are your Episcopal tenets but mere Popery? save that ye + have chosen a temporal tyrant for your Pope, and substitute a mangled mass + in English for that which your predecessors pronounced in Latin.—But + why speak I of these things to one who hath ears, indeed, and eyes, yet + cannot see, listen to, or understand what is alone worthy to be heard, + seen, and known? Pity that what hath been wrought so fair and exquisite in + form and disposition, should be yet blind, deaf, and ignorant, like the + things which perish!" + </p> + <p> + "We shall not agree on these subjects, Master Bridgenorth," said the lady, + anxious still to escape from this strange conference, though scarce + knowing what to apprehend; "once more, I must bid you farewell." + </p> + <p> + "Stay yet an instant," he said, again laying his hand on her arm; "I would + stop you if I saw you rushing on the brink of an actual precipice—let + me prevent you from a danger still greater. How shall I work upon your + unbelieving mind? Shall I tell you that the debt of bloodshed yet remains + a debt to be paid by the bloody house of Derby? And wilt thou send thy son + to be among those from whom it shall be exacted?" + </p> + <p> + "You wish to alarm me in vain, Master Bridgenorth," answered the lady; + "what penalty can be exacted from the Countess, for an action, which I + have already called a rash one, has been long since levied." + </p> + <p> + "You deceive yourself," retorted he sternly. "Think you a paltry sum of + money, given to be wasted on the debaucheries of Charles, can atone for + the death of such a man as Christian—a man precious alike to heaven + and to earth? Not on such terms is the blood of the righteous to be poured + forth! Every hour's delay is numbered down as adding interest to the + grievous debt, which will one day be required from that blood-thirsty + woman." + </p> + <p> + At this moment the distant tread of horses was heard on the road on which + they held this singular dialogue. Bridgenorth listened a moment, and then + said, "Forget that you have seen me—name not my name to your nearest + or dearest—lock my counsel in your breast—profit by it, and it + shall be well with you." + </p> + <p> + So saying, he turned from her, and plunging through a gap in the fence, + regained the cover of his own wood, along which the path still led. + </p> + <p> + The noise of horses advancing at full trot now came nearer; and Lady + Peveril was aware of several riders, whose forms rose indistinctly on the + summit of the rising ground behind her. She became also visible to them; + and one or two of the foremost made towards her at increased speed, + challenging her as they advanced with the cry of "Stand! Who goes there?" + The foremost who came up, however, exclaimed, "Mercy on us, if it be not + my lady!" and Lady Peveril, at the same moment, recognised one of her own + servants. Her husband rode up immediately afterwards, with, "How now, Dame + Margaret? What makes you abroad so far from home and at an hour so late?" + </p> + <p> + Lady Peveril mentioned her visit at the cottage, but did not think it + necessary to say aught of having seen Major Bridgenorth; afraid, it may + be, that her husband might be displeased with that incident. + </p> + <p> + "Charity is a fine thing and a fair," answered Sir Geoffrey; "but I must + tell you, you do ill, dame, to wander about the country like a + quacksalver, at the call of every old woman who has a colic-fit; and at + this time of night especially, and when the land is so unsettled besides." + </p> + <p> + "I am sorry to hear that it so," said the lady. "I had heard no such + news." + </p> + <p> + "News?" repeated Sir Geoffrey, "why, here has a new plot broken out among + the Roundheads, worse than Venner's by a butt's length;[*] and who should + be so deep in it as our old neighbour Bridgenorth? There is search for him + everywhere; and I promise you if he is found, he is like to pay old + scores." + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +[*] The celebrated insurrection of the Anabaptists and Fifth Monarchy + men in London, in the year 1661. +</pre> + <p> + "Then I am sure, I trust he will not be found," said Lady Peveril. + </p> + <p> + "Do you so?" replied Sir Geoffrey. "Now I, on my part hope that he will; + and it shall not be my fault if he be not; for which effect I will + presently ride down to Moultrassie, and make strict search, according to + my duty; there shall neither rebel nor traitor earth so near Martindale + Castle, that I will assure them. And you, my lady, be pleased for once to + dispense with a pillion, and get up, as you have done before, behind + Saunders, who shall convey you safe home." + </p> + <p> + The Lady obeyed in silence; indeed she did not dare to trust her voice in + an attempt to reply, so much was she disconcerted with the intelligence + she had just heard. + </p> + <p> + She rode behind the groom to the Castle, where she awaited in great + anxiety the return of her husband. He came back at length; but to her + great relief, without any prisoner. He then explained more fully than his + haste had before permitted, that an express had come down to Chesterfield, + with news from Court of a proposed insurrection amongst the old + Commonwealth men, especially those who had served in the army; and that + Bridgenorth, said to be lurking in Derbyshire, was one of the principal + conspirators. + </p> + <p> + After some time, this report of a conspiracy seemed to die away like many + others of that period. The warrants were recalled, but nothing more was + seen or heard of Major Bridgenorth; although it is probable he might + safely enough have shown himself as openly as many did who lay under the + same circumstances of suspicion. + </p> + <p> + About this time also, Lady Peveril, with many tears, took a temporary + leave of her son Julian, who was sent, as had long been intended, for the + purpose of sharing the education of the young Earl of Derby. Although the + boding words of Bridgenorth sometimes occurred to Lady Peveril's mind, she + did not suffer them to weigh with her in opposition to the advantages + which the patronage of the Countess of Derby secured to her son. + </p> + <p> + The plan seemed to be in every respect successful; and when, from time to + time, Julian visited the house of his father, Lady Peveril had the + satisfaction to see him, on every occasion, improved in person and in + manner, as well as ardent in the pursuit of more solid acquirements. In + process of time he became a gallant and accomplished youth, and travelled + for some time upon the continent with the young Earl. This was the more + especially necessary for the enlarging of their acquaintance with the + world; because the Countess had never appeared in London, or at the Court + of King Charles, since her flight to the Isle of Man in 1660; but had + resided in solitary and aristocratic state, alternately on her estates in + England and in that island. + </p> + <p> + This had given to the education of both the young men, otherwise as + excellent as the best teachers could render it, something of a narrow and + restricted character; but though the disposition of the young Earl was + lighter and more volatile than that of Julian, both the one and the other + had profited, in a considerable degree, by the opportunities afforded + them. It was Lady Derby's strict injunction to her son, now returning from + the continent, that he should not appear at the Court of Charles. But + having been for some time of age, he did not think it absolutely necessary + to obey her in this particular; and had remained for some time in London, + partaking the pleasures of the gay Court there, with all the ardour of a + young man bred up in comparative seclusion. + </p> + <p> + In order to reconcile the Countess to this transgression of her authority + (for he continued to entertain for her the profound respect in which he + had been educated), Lord Derby agreed to make a long sojourn with her in + her favourite island, which he abandoned almost entirely to her + management. + </p> + <p> + Julian Peveril had spent at Martindale Castle a good deal of the time + which his friend had bestowed in London; and at the period to which, + passing over many years, our story has arrived, as it were, <i>per saltum</i>, + they were both living as the Countess's guests, in the Castle of Rushin, + in the venerable kingdom of Man. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0011" id="link2HCH0011"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XI + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Mona—long hid from those who roam the main. + —COLLINS. +</pre> + <p> + The Isle of Man, in the middle of the seventeenth century, was very + different, as a place of residence, from what it is now. Men had not then + discovered its merit as a place of occasional refuge from the storms of + life, and the society to be there met with was of a very uniform tenor. + There were no smart fellows, whom fortune had tumbled from the seat of + their barouches—no plucked pigeons or winged rooks—no + disappointed speculators—no ruined miners—in short, no one + worth talking to. The society of the island was limited to the natives + themselves, and a few merchants, who lived by contraband trade. The + amusements were rare and monotonous, and the mercurial young Earl was soon + heartily tired of his dominions. The islanders, also, become too wise for + happiness, had lost relish for the harmless and somewhat childish sports + in which their simple ancestors had indulged themselves. May was no longer + ushered in by the imaginary contest between the Queen of returning winter + and advancing spring; the listeners no longer sympathised with the lively + music of the followers of the one, or the discordant sounds with which the + other asserted a more noisy claim to attention. Christmas, too, closed, + and the steeples no longer jangled forth a dissonant peal. The wren, to + seek for which used to be the sport dedicated to the holytide, was left + unpursued and unslain. Party spirit had come among these simple people, + and destroyed their good humour, while it left them their ignorance. Even + the races, a sport generally interesting to people of all ranks, were no + longer performed, because they were no longer interesting. The gentlemen + were divided by feuds hitherto unknown, and each seemed to hold it scorn + to be pleased with the same diversions that amused those of the opposite + faction. The hearts of both parties revolted from the recollection of + former days, when all was peace among them, when the Earl of Derby, now + slaughtered, used to bestow the prize, and Christian, since so + vindictively executed, started horses to add to the amusement. + </p> + <p> + Julian was seated in the deep recess which led to a latticed window of the + old Castle; and, with his arms crossed, and an air of profound + contemplation, was surveying the long perspective of ocean, which rolled + its successive waves up to the foot of the rock on which the ancient pile + is founded. The Earl was suffering under the infliction of ennui—now + looking into a volume of Homer—now whistling—now swinging on + his chair—now traversing the room—till, at length, his + attention became swallowed up in admiration of the tranquillity of his + companion. + </p> + <p> + "King of Men!" he said, repeating the favourite epithet by which Homer + describes Agamemnon,—"I trust, for the old Greek's sake, he had a + merrier office than being King of Man—Most philosophical Julian, + will nothing rouse thee—not even a bad pun on my own royal dignity?" + </p> + <p> + "I wish you would be a little more the King in Man," said Julian, starting + from his reverie, "and then you would find more amusement in your + dominions." + </p> + <p> + "What! dethrone that royal Semiramis my mother," said the young lord, "who + has as much pleasure in playing Queen as if she were a real Sovereign?—I + wonder you can give me such counsel." + </p> + <p> + "Your mother, as you well know, my dear Derby, would be delighted, did you + take any interest in the affairs of the island." + </p> + <p> + "Ay, truly, she would permit me to be King; but she would choose to remain + Viceroy over me. Why, she would only gain a subject the more, by my + converting my spare time, which is so very valuable to me, to the cares of + royalty. No, no, Julian, she thinks it power, to direct all the affairs of + these poor Manxmen; and, thinking it power, she finds it pleasure. I shall + not interfere, unless she hold a high court of justice again. I cannot + afford to pay another fine to my brother, King Charles—But I forget—this + is a sore point with you." + </p> + <p> + "With the Countess, at least," replied Julian; "and I wonder you will + speak of it." + </p> + <p> + "Why, I bear no malice against the poor man's memory any more than + yourself, though I have not the same reasons for holding it in + veneration," replied the Earl of Derby; "and yet I have some respect for + it too. I remember their bringing him out to die—It was the first + holiday I ever had in my life, and I heartily wish it had been on some + other account." + </p> + <p> + "I would rather hear you speak of anything else, my lord," said Julian. + </p> + <p> + "Why, there it goes," answered the Earl; "whenever I talk of anything that + puts you on your mettle, and warms your blood, that runs as cold as a + merman's—to use a simile of this happy island—hey pass! you + press me to change the subject.—Well, what shall we talk of?—O + Julian, if you had not gone down to earth yourself among the castles and + caverns of Derbyshire, we should have had enough of delicious topics—the + play-houses, Julian—Both the King's house and the Duke's—Louis's + establishment is a jest to them;—and the Ring in the Park, which + beats the Corso at Naples—and the beauties, who beat the whole + world!" + </p> + <p> + "I am very willing to hear you speak on the subject, my lord," answered + Julian; "the less I have seen of London world myself, the more I am likely + to be amused by your account of it." + </p> + <p> + "Ay, my friend—but where to begin?—with the wit of Buckingham, + and Sedley, and Etherege, or with the grace of Harry Jermyn—the + courtesy of the Duke of Monmouth, or with the loveliness of La Belle + Hamilton—of the Duchess of Richmond—of Lady ——, + the person of Roxalana, the smart humour of Mrs. Nelly——" + </p> + <p> + "Or what say you to the bewitching sorceries of Lady Cynthia?" demanded + his companion. + </p> + <p> + "Faith, I would have kept these to myself," said the Earl, "to follow your + prudent example. But since you ask me, I fairly own I cannot tell what to + say of them; only I think of them twenty times as often as all the + beauties I have spoken of. And yet she is neither the twentieth part so + beautiful as the plainest of these Court beauties, nor so witty as the + dullest I have named, nor so modish—that is the great matter—as + the most obscure. I cannot tell what makes me dote on her, except that she + is a capricious as her whole sex put together." + </p> + <p> + "That I should think a small recommendation," answered his companion. + </p> + <p> + "Small, do you term it," replied the Earl, "and write yourself a brother + of the angle? Why, which like you best? to pull a dead strain on a + miserable gudgeon, which you draw ashore by main force, as the fellows + here tow in their fishing-boats—or a lively salmon, that makes your + rod crack, and your line whistle—plays you ten thousand mischievous + pranks—wearies your heart out with hopes and fears—and is only + laid panting on the bank, after you have shown the most unmatchable + display of skill, patience, and dexterity?—But I see you have a mind + to go on angling after your own old fashion. Off laced coat, and on brown + jerkin;—lively colours scare fish in the sober waters of the Isle of + Man;—faith, in London you will catch few, unless the bait glistens a + little. But you <i>are</i> going?—Well, good luck to you. I will + take to the barge;—the sea and wind are less inconstant than the + tide you have embarked on." + </p> + <p> + "You have learned to say all these smart things in London, my lord," + answered Julian; "but we shall have you a penitent for them, if Lady + Cynthia be of my mind. Adieu, and pleasure till we meet." + </p> + <p> + The young men parted accordingly; and while the Earl betook him to his + pleasure voyage, Julian, as his friend had prophesied, assumed the dress + of one who means to amuse himself with angling. The hat and feather were + exchanged for a cap of grey cloth; the deeply-laced cloak and doublet for + a simple jacket of the same colour, with hose conforming; and finally, + with rod in hand, and pannier at his back, mounted upon a handsome Manx + pony, young Peveril rode briskly over the country which divided him from + one of those beautiful streams that descend to the sea from the + Kirk-Merlagh mountains. + </p> + <p> + Having reached the spot where he meant to commence his day's sport, Julian + let his little steed graze, which, accustomed to the situation, followed + him like a dog; and now and then, when tired of picking herbage in the + valley through which the stream winded, came near her master's side, and, + as if she had been a curious amateur of the sport, gazed on the trouts as + Julian brought them struggling to the shore. But Fairy's master showed, on + that day, little of the patience of a real angler, and took no heed to old + Isaac Walton's recommendation, to fish the streams inch by inch. He chose, + indeed, with an angler's eye, the most promising casts, which the stream + broke sparkling over a stone, affording the wonted shelter to a trout; or + where, gliding away from a rippling current to a still eddy it streamed + under the projecting bank, or dashed from the pool of some low cascade. By + this judicious selection of spots whereon to employ his art, the + sportsman's basket was soon sufficiently heavy, to show that his + occupation was not a mere pretext; and so soon as this was the case, he + walked briskly up the glen, only making a cast from time to time, in case + of his being observed from any of the neighbouring heights. + </p> + <p> + It was a little green and rocky valley through which the brook strayed, + very lonely, although the slight track of an unformed road showed that it + was occasionally traversed, and that it was not altogether void of + inhabitants. As Peveril advanced still farther, the right bank reached to + some distance from the stream, leaving a piece of meadow ground, the lower + part of which, being close to the brook, was entirely covered with rich + herbage, being possibly occasionally irrigated by its overflow. The higher + part of the level ground afforded a stance for an old house, of singular + structure, with a terraced garden, and a cultivated field or two beside + it. In former times, a Danish or Norwegian fastness had stood here, called + the Black Fort, from the colour of a huge healthy hill, which, rising + behind the building, appeared to be the boundary of the valley, and to + afford the source of the brook. But the original structure had been long + demolished, as, indeed, it probably only consisted of dry stones, and its + materials had been applied to the construction of the present mansion—the + work of some churchman during the sixteenth century, as was evident from + the huge stone-work of its windows, which scarce left room for light to + pass through, as well as from two or three heavy buttresses, which + projected from the front of the house, and exhibited on their surface + little niches for images. These had been carefully destroyed, and pots of + flowers were placed in the niches in their stead, besides their being + ornamented by creeping plants of various kinds, fancifully twined around + them. The garden was also in good order; and though the spot was extremely + solitary, there was about it altogether an air of comfort, accommodation, + and even elegance, by no means generally characteristic of the habitations + of the island at the time. + </p> + <p> + With much circumspection, Julian Peveril approached the low Gothic porch, + which defended the entrance of the mansion from the tempests incident to + its situation, and was, like the buttresses, overrun with ivy and other + creeping plants. An iron ring, contrived so as when drawn up and down to + rattle against the bar of notched iron through which it was suspended, + served the purpose of a knocker; and to this he applied himself, though + with the greatest precaution. + </p> + <p> + He received no answer for some time, and indeed it seemed as if the house + was totally uninhabited; when, at length, his impatience getting the upper + hand, he tried to open the door, and, as it was only upon the latch, very + easily succeeded. He passed through a little low-arched hall, the upper + end of which was occupied by a staircase, and turning to the left, opened + the door of a summer parlour, wainscoted with black oak, and very simply + furnished with chairs and tables of the same materials; the former + cushioned with the leather. The apartment was gloomy—one of those + stone-shafted windows which we have mentioned, with its small latticed + panes, and thick garland of foliage, admitting but an imperfect light. + </p> + <p> + Over the chimneypiece (which was of the same massive materials with the + panelling of the apartment) was the only ornament of the room; a painting, + namely, representing an officer in the military dress of the Civil Wars. + It was a green jerkin, then the national and peculiar wear of the Manxmen; + his short band which hung down on the cuirass—the orange-coloured + scarf, but, above all, the shortness of his close-cut hair, showing + evidently to which of the great parties he had belonged. His right hand + rested on the hilt of his sword; and in the left he held a small Bible, + bearing the inscription, "<i>In hoc signo</i>." The countenance was of a + light complexion, with fair and almost effeminate blue eyes, and an oval + form of face—one of those physiognomies, to which, though not + otherwise unpleasing, we naturally attach the idea of melancholy and of + misfortune.[*] Apparently it was well known to Julian Peveril; for after + having looked at it for a long time, he could not forbear muttering aloud, + "What would I give that that man had never been born, or that he still + lived!" + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +[*] I am told that a portrait of the unfortunate William Christian is + still preserved in the family of Waterson of Ballnabow of Kirk + Church, Rushin. William Dhône is dressed in a green coat without + collar or cape, after the fashion of those puritanic times, with + the head in a close cropt wig, resembling the bishop's peruke of + the present day. The countenance is youthful and well-looking, + very unlike the expression of foreboding melancholy. I have so far + taken advantage of this criticism, as to bring my ideal portrait + in the present edition, nearer to the complexion at least of the + fair-haired William Dhône. +</pre> + <p> + "How now—how is this?" said a female, who entered the room as he + uttered this reflection. "<i>You</i> here, Master Peveril, in spite of all + the warnings you have had! You here in the possession of folk's house when + they are abroad, and talking to yourself, as I shall warrant!" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, Mistress Deborah," said Peveril, "I am here once more, as you see, + against every prohibition, and in defiance of all danger.—Where is + Alice?" + </p> + <p> + "Where you will never see her, Master Julian—you may satisfy + yourself of that," answered Mistress Deborah, for it was that respectable + governante; and sinking down at the same time upon one of the large + leathern chairs, she began to fan herself with her handkerchief, and + complain of the heat in a most ladylike fashion. + </p> + <p> + In fact, Mistress Debbitch, while her exterior intimated a considerable + change of condition for the better, and her countenance showed the less + favourable effects of the twenty years which had passed over her head, was + in mind and manners very much what she had been when she battled the + opinions of Madam Ellesmere at Martindale Castle. In a word, she was + self-willed, obstinate, and coquettish as ever, otherwise no ill-disposed + person. Her present appearance was that of a woman of the better rank. + From the sobriety of the fashion of her dress, and the uniformity of its + colours, it was plain she belonged to some sect which condemned + superfluous gaiety in attire; but no rules, not those of a nunnery or of a + quaker's society, can prevent a little coquetry in that particular, where + a woman is desirous of being supposed to retain some claim to personal + attention. All Mistress Deborah's garments were so arranged as might best + set off a good-looking woman, whose countenance indicated ease and good + cheer—who called herself five-and-thirty, and was well entitled, if + she had a mind, to call herself twelve or fifteen years older. + </p> + <p> + Julian was under the necessity of enduring all her tiresome and fantastic + airs, and awaiting with patience till she had "prinked herself and pinned + herself"—flung her hoods back, and drawn them forward—snuffed + at a little bottle of essences—closed her eyes like a dying fowl—turned + them up like duck in a thunderstorm; when at length, having exhausted her + round of <i>minauderies</i>, she condescended to open the conversation. + </p> + <p> + "These walks will be the death of me," she said, "and all on your account, + Master Julian Peveril; for if Dame Christian should learn that you have + chosen to make your visits to her niece, I promise you Mistress Alice + would be soon obliged to find other quarters, and so should I." + </p> + <p> + "Come now, Mistress Deborah, be good-humoured," said Julian; "consider, + was not all this intimacy of ours of your own making? Did you not make + yourself known to me the very first time I strolled up this glen with my + fishing-rod, and tell me that you were my former keeper, and that Alice + had been my little playfellow? And what could there be more natural, than + that I should come back and see two such agreeable persons as often as I + could?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said Dame Deborah; "but I did not bid you fall in love with us, + though, or propose such a matter as marriage either to Alice or myself." + </p> + <p> + "To do you justice, you never did, Deborah," answered the youth; "but what + of that? Such things will come out before one is aware. I am sure you must + have heard such proposals fifty times when you least expected them." + </p> + <p> + "Fie, fie, fie, Master Julian Peveril," said the governante; "I would have + you to know that I have always so behaved myself, that the best of the + land would have thought twice of it, and have very well considered both + what he was going to say, and how he was going to say it, before he came + out with such proposals to me." + </p> + <p> + "True, true, Mistress Deborah," continued Julian; "but all the world hath + not your discretion. Then Alice Bridgenorth is a child—a mere child; + and one always asks a baby to be one's little wife, you know. Come, I know + you will forgive me. Thou wert ever the best-natured, kindest woman in the + world; and you know you have said twenty times we were made for each + other." + </p> + <p> + "Oh no, Master Julian Peveril; no, no, no!" ejaculated Deborah. "I may + indeed have said your estates were born to be united; and to be sure it is + natural for me, that come of the old stock of the yeomanry of Peveril of + the Peak's estate, to wish that it was all within the ring fence again; + which sure enough it might be, were you to marry Alice Bridgenorth. But + then there is the knight your father, and my lady your mother; and there + is her father, that is half crazy with his religion; and her aunt that + wears eternal black grogram for that unlucky Colonel Christian; and there + is the Countess of Derby, that would serve us all with the same sauce if + we were thinking of anything that would displease her. And besides all + that, you have broke your word with Mistress Alice, and everything is over + between you; and I am of opinion it is quite right it should be all over. + And perhaps it may be, Master Julian, that I should have thought so a long + time ago, before a child like Alice put it into my head; but I am so + good-natured." + </p> + <p> + No flatterer like a lover, who wishes to carry his point. + </p> + <p> + "You are the best-natured, kindest creature in the world, Deborah.—But + you have never seen the ring I bought for you at Paris. Nay, I will put it + on your finger myself;—what! your foster-son, whom you loved so + well, and took such care of?" + </p> + <p> + He easily succeeded in putting a pretty ring of gold, with a humorous + affectation of gallantry, on the fat finger of Mistress Deborah Debbitch. + Hers was a soul of a kind often to be met with, both among the lower and + higher vulgar, who, without being, on a broad scale, accessible to bribes + or corruption, are nevertheless much attached to perquisites, and + considerably biassed in their line of duty, though perhaps insensibly, by + the love of petty observances, petty presents, and trivial compliments. + Mistress Debbitch turned the ring round, and round, and round, and at + length said, in a whisper, "Well, Master Julian Peveril, it signifies + nothing denying anything to such a young gentleman as you, for young + gentlemen are always so obstinate! and so I may as well tell you, that + Mistress Alice walked back from the Kirk-Truagh along with me, just now, + and entered the house at the same time with myself." + </p> + <p> + "Why did you not tell me so before?" said Julian, starting up; "where—where + is she?" + </p> + <p> + "You had better ask why I tell you so <i>now</i>, Master Julian," said + Dame Deborah; "for, I promise you, it is against her express commands; and + I would not have told you, had you not looked so pitiful;—but as for + seeing you, that she will not—and she is in her own bedroom, with a + good oak door shut and bolted upon her—that is one comfort.—And + so, as for any breach of trust on my part—I promise you the little + saucy minx gives it no less name—it is quite impossible." + </p> + <p> + "Do not say so, Deborah—only go—only try—tell her to + hear me—tell her I have a hundred excuses for disobeying her + commands—tell her I have no doubt to get over all obstacles at + Martindale Castle." + </p> + <p> + "Nay, I tell you it is all in vain," replied the Dame. "When I saw your + cap and rod lying in the hall, I did but say, 'There he is again,' and she + ran up the stairs like a young deer; and I heard key turned, and bolt + shot, ere I could say a single word to stop her—I marvel you heard + her not." + </p> + <p> + "It was because I am, as I ever was, an owl—a dreaming fool, who let + all those golden minutes pass, which my luckless life holds out to me so + rarely.—Well—tell her I go—go for ever—go where + she will hear no more of me—where no one shall hear more of me!" + </p> + <p> + "Oh, the Father!" said the dame, "hear how he talks!—What will + become of Sir Geoffrey, and your mother, and of me, and of the Countess, + if you were to go so far as you talk of? And what would become of poor + Alice too? for I will be sworn she likes you better than she says, and I + know she used to sit and look the way that you used to come up the stream, + and now and then ask me if the morning were good for fishing. And all the + while you were on the continent, as they call it, she scarcely smiled + once, unless it was when she got two beautiful long letters about foreign + parts." + </p> + <p> + "Friendship, Dame Deborah—only friendship—cold and calm + remembrance of one who, by your kind permission, stole in on your solitude + now and then, with news from the living world without—Once, indeed, + I thought—but it is all over—farewell." + </p> + <p> + So saying, he covered his face with one hand, and extended the other, in + the act of bidding adieu to Dame Debbitch, whose kind heart became unable + to withstand the sight of his affliction. + </p> + <p> + "Now, do not be in such haste," she said; "I will go up again, and tell + her how it stands with you, and bring her down, if it is in woman's power + to do it." + </p> + <p> + And so saying, she left the apartment, and ran upstairs. + </p> + <p> + Julian Peveril, meanwhile, paced the apartment in great agitation, waiting + the success of Deborah's intercession; and she remained long enough absent + to give us time to explain, in a short retrospect, the circumstances which + had led to his present situation. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0012" id="link2HCH0012"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XII + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Ah me! for aught that ever I could read, + Could ever hear by tale or history, + The course of true love never did run smooth! + —Midsummer Night's Dream. +</pre> + <p> + The celebrated passage which we have prefixed to this chapter has, like + most observations of the same author, its foundation in real experience. + The period at which love is formed for the first time, and felt most + strongly, is seldom that at which there is much prospect of its being + brought to a happy issue. The state of artificial society opposes many + complicated obstructions to early marriages; and the chance is very great, + that such obstacles prove insurmountable. In fine, there are few men who + do not look back in secret to some period of their youth, at which a + sincere and early affection was repulsed, or betrayed, or become abortive + from opposing circumstances. It is these little passages of secret + history, which leave a tinge of romance in every bosom, scarce permitting + us, even in the most busy or the most advanced period of life, to listen + with total indifference to a tale of true love. + </p> + <p> + Julian Peveril had so fixed his affections, as to insure the fullest share + of that opposition which early attachments are so apt to encounter. Yet + nothing so natural as that he should have done so. In early youth, Dame + Debbitch had accidentally met with the son of her first patroness, and who + had himself been her earliest charge, fishing in the little brook already + noticed, which watered the valley in which she resided with Alice + Bridgenorth. The dame's curiosity easily discovered who he was; and + besides the interest which persons in her condition usually take in the + young people who have been under their charge, she was delighted with the + opportunity to talk about former times—about Martindale Castle, and + friends there—about Sir Geoffrey and his good lady—and, now + and then, about Lance Outram the park-keeper. + </p> + <p> + The mere pleasure of gratifying her inquiries, would scarce have had power + enough to induce Julian to repeat his visits to the lonely glen; but + Deborah had a companion—a lovely girl—bred in solitude, and in + the quiet and unpretending tastes which solitude encourages—spirited, + also, and inquisitive, and listening, with laughing cheek, and an eager + eye, to every tale which the young angler brought from the town and + castle. + </p> + <p> + The visits of Julian to the Black Fort were only occasional—so far + Dame Deborah showed common-sense—which was, perhaps, inspired by the + apprehension of losing her place, in case of discovery. She had, indeed, + great confidence in the strong and rooted belief—amounting almost to + superstition—which Major Bridgenorth entertained, that his + daughter's continued health could only be insured by her continuing under + the charge of one who had acquired Lady Peveril's supposed skill in + treating those subject to such ailments. This belief Dame Deborah had + improved to the utmost of her simple cunning,—always speaking in + something of an oracular tone, upon the subject of her charge's health, + and hinting at certain mysterious rules necessary to maintain it in the + present favourable state. She had availed herself of this artifice, to + procure for herself and Alice a separate establishment at the Black Fort; + for it was originally Major Bridgenorth's resolution, that his daughter + and her governante should remain under the same roof with the + sister-in-law of his deceased wife, the widow of the unfortunate Colonel + Christian. But this lady was broken down with premature age, brought on by + sorrow; and, in a short visit which Major Bridgenorth made to the island, + he was easily prevailed on to consider her house at Kirk-Truagh, as a very + cheerless residence for his daughter. Dame Deborah, who longed for + domestic independence, was careful to increase this impression by alarming + her patron's fears on account of Alice's health. The mansion of + Kirk-Truagh stood, she said, much exposed to the Scottish winds, which + could not but be cold, as they came from a country where, as she was + assured, there was ice and snow at midsummer. In short, she prevailed, and + was put into full possession of the Black Fort, a house which, as well as + Kirk-Truagh, belonged formerly to Christian, and now to his widow. + </p> + <p> + Still, however, it was enjoined on the governante and her charge, to visit + Kirk-Truagh from time to time, and to consider themselves as under the + management and guardianship of Mistress Christian—a state of + subjection, the sense of which Deborah endeavoured to lessen, by assuming + as much freedom of conduct as she possibly dared, under the influence, + doubtless, of the same feelings of independence, which induced her, at + Martindale Hall, to spurn the advice of Mistress Ellesmere. + </p> + <p> + It was this generous disposition to defy control which induced her to + procure for Alice, secretly, some means of education, which the stern + genius of puritanism would have proscribed. She ventured to have her + charge taught music—nay, even dancing; and the picture of the stern + Colonel Christian trembled on the wainscot where it was suspended, while + the sylph-like form of Alice, and the substantial person of Dame Deborah, + executed French <i>chaussées</i> and <i>borrées</i>, to the sound of a + small kit, which screamed under the bow of Monsieur De Pigal, half + smuggler, half dancing-master. This abomination reached the ears of the + Colonel's widow, and by her was communicated to Bridgenorth, whose sudden + appearance in the island showed the importance he attached to the + communication. Had she been faithless to her own cause, that had been the + latest hour of Mrs. Deborah's administration. But she retreated into her + stronghold. + </p> + <p> + "Dancing," she said, "was exercise, regulated and timed by music; and it + stood to reason, that it must be the best of all exercise for a delicate + person, especially as it could be taken within doors, and in all states of + the weather." + </p> + <p> + Bridgenorth listened, with a clouded and thoughtful brow, when, in + exemplification of her doctrine, Mistress Deborah, who was no contemptible + performer on the viol, began to jangle Sellenger's Round, and desired + Alice to dance an old English measure to the tune. As the half-bashful, + half-smiling girl, about fourteen—for such was her age—moved + gracefully to the music, the father's eye unavoidably followed the light + spring of her step, and marked with joy the rising colour in her cheek. + When the dance was over, he folded her in his arms, smoothed her somewhat + disordered locks with a father's affectionate hand, smiled, kissed her + brow, and took his leave, without one single word farther interdicting the + exercise of dancing. He did not himself communicate the result of his + visit at the Black Fort to Mrs. Christian, but she was not long of + learning it, by the triumph of Dame Deborah on her next visit. + </p> + <p> + "It is well," said the stern old lady; "my brother Bridgenorth hath + permitted you to make a Herodias of Alice, and teach her dancing. You have + only now to find her a partner for life—I shall neither meddle nor + make more in their affairs." + </p> + <p> + In fact, the triumph of Dame Deborah, or rather of Dame Nature, on this + occasion, had more important effects than the former had ventured to + anticipate; for Mrs. Christian, though she received with all formality the + formal visits of the governante and her charge, seemed thenceforth so + pettish with the issue of her remonstrance, upon the enormity of her niece + dancing to a little fiddle, that she appeared to give up interference in + her affairs, and left Dame Debbitch and Alice to manage both education and + housekeeping—in which she had hitherto greatly concerned herself—much + after their own pleasure. + </p> + <p> + It was in this independent state that they lived, when Julian first + visited their habitation; and he was the rather encouraged to do so by + Dame Deborah, that she believed him to be one of the last persons in the + world with whom Mistress Christian would have desired her niece to be + acquainted—the happy spirit of contradiction superseding, with Dame + Deborah, on this, as on other occasions, all consideration of the fitness + of things. She did not act altogether without precaution neither. She was + aware she had to guard not only against any reviving interest or curiosity + on the part of Mistress Christian, but against the sudden arrival of Major + Bridgenorth, who never failed once in the year to make his appearance at + the Black Fort when least expected, and to remain there for a few days. + Dame Debbitch, therefore, exacted of Julian, that his visits should be few + and far between; that he should condescend to pass for a relation of her + own, in the eyes of two ignorant Manx girls and a lad, who formed her + establishment; and that he should always appear in his angler's dress made + of the simple <i>Loughtan</i>, or buff-coloured wool of the island, which + is not subjected to dyeing. By these cautions, she thought his intimacy at + the Black Fort would be entirely unnoticed, or considered as immaterial, + while, in the meantime, it furnished much amusement to her charge and + herself. + </p> + <p> + This was accordingly the case during the earlier part of their + intercourse, while Julian was a lad, and Alice a girl two or three years + younger. But as the lad shot up to youth, and the girl to womanhood, even + Dame Deborah Debbitch's judgment saw danger in their continued intimacy. + She took an opportunity to communicate to Julian who Miss Bridgenorth + actually was, and the peculiar circumstances which placed discord between + their fathers. He heard the story of their quarrel with interest and + surprise, for he had only resided occasionally at Martindale Castle, and + the subject of Bridgenorth's quarrel with his father had never been + mentioned in his presence. His imagination caught fire at the sparks + afforded by this singular story; and, far from complying with the prudent + remonstrance of Dame Deborah, and gradually estranging himself from the + Black Fort and its fair inmate, he frankly declared, he considered his + intimacy there, so casually commenced, as intimating the will of Heaven, + that Alice and he were designed for each other, in spite of every obstacle + which passion or prejudice could raise up betwixt them. They had been + companions in infancy; and a little exertion of memory enabled him to + recall his childish grief for the unexpected and sudden disappearance of + his little companion, whom he was destined again to meet with in the early + bloom of opening beauty, in a country which was foreign to them both. + </p> + <p> + Dame Deborah was confounded at the consequences of her communication, + which had thus blown into a flame the passion which she hoped it would + have either prevented or extinguished. She had not the sort of head which + resists the masculine and energetic remonstrances of passionate + attachment, whether addressed to her on her own account, or on behalf of + another. She lamented, and wondered, and ended her feeble opposition, by + weeping, and sympathising, and consenting to allow the continuance of + Julian's visits, provided he should only address himself to Alice as a + friend; to gain the world, she would consent to nothing more. She was not, + however, so simple, but that she also had her forebodings of the designs + of Providence on this youthful couple; for certainly they could not be + more formed to be united than the good estates of Martindale and + Moultrassie. + </p> + <p> + Then came a long sequence of reflections. Martindale Castle wanted but + some repairs to be almost equal to Chatsworth. The Hall might be allowed + to go to ruin; or, what would be better, when Sir Geoffrey's time came + (for the good knight had seen service, and must be breaking now), the Hall + would be a good dowery-house, to which my lady and Ellesmere might + retreat; while (empress of the still-room, and queen of the pantry) + Mistress Deborah Debbitch should reign housekeeper at the Castle, and + extend, perhaps, the crown-matrimonial to Lance Outram, provided he was + not become too old, too fat, or too fond of ale. + </p> + <p> + Such were the soothing visions under the influence of which the dame + connived at an attachment, which lulled also to pleasing dreams, though of + a character so different, her charge and her visitant. + </p> + <p> + The visits of the young angler became more and more frequent; and the + embarrassed Deborah, though foreseeing all the dangers of discovery, and + the additional risk of an explanation betwixt Alice and Julian, which must + necessarily render their relative situation so much more delicate, felt + completely overborne by the enthusiasm of the young lover, and was + compelled to let matters take their course. + </p> + <p> + The departure of Julian for the continent interrupted the course of his + intimacy at the Black Fort, and while it relieved the elder of its inmates + from much internal apprehension, spread an air of languor and dejection + over the countenance of the younger, which, at Bridgenorth's next visit to + the Isle of Man, renewed all his terrors for his daughter's constitutional + malady. + </p> + <p> + Deborah promised faithfully she should look better the next morning, and + she kept her word. She had retained in her possession for some time a + letter which Julian had, by some private conveyance, sent to her charge, + for his youthful friend. Deborah had dreaded the consequences of + delivering it as a billet-doux, but, as in the case of the dance, she + thought there could be no harm in administering it as a remedy. + </p> + <p> + It had complete effect; and next day the cheeks of the maiden had a tinge + of the rose, which so much delighted her father, that, as he mounted his + horse, he flung his purse into Deborah's hand, with the desire she should + spare nothing that could make herself and his daughter happy, and the + assurance that she had his full confidence. + </p> + <p> + This expression of liberality and confidence from a man of Major + Bridgenorth's reserved and cautious disposition, gave full plumage to + Mistress Deborah's hopes; and emboldened her not only to deliver another + letter of Julian's to the young lady, but to encourage more boldly and + freely than formerly the intercourse of the lovers when Peveril returned + from abroad. + </p> + <p> + At length, in spite of all Julian's precaution, the young Earl became + suspicious of his frequent solitary fishing parties; and he himself, now + better acquainted with the world than formerly, became aware that his + repeated visits and solitary walks with a person so young and beautiful as + Alice, might not only betray prematurely the secret of his attachment, but + be of essential prejudice to her who was its object. + </p> + <p> + Under the influence of this conviction, he abstained, for an unusual + period, from visiting the Black Fort. But when he next indulged himself + with spending an hour in the place where he would gladly have abode for + ever, the altered manner of Alice—the tone in which she seemed to + upbraid his neglect, penetrated his heart, and deprived him of that power + of self-command, which he had hitherto exercised in their interviews. It + required but a few energetic words to explain to Alice at once his + feelings, and to make her sensible of the real nature of her own. She wept + plentifully, but her tears were not all of bitterness. She sat passively + still, and without reply, while he explained to her, with many an + interjection, the circumstances which had placed discord between their + families; for hitherto, all that she had known was, that Master Peveril, + belonging to the household of the great Countess or Lady of Man, must + observe some precautions in visiting a relative of the unhappy Colonel + Christian. But, when Julian concluded his tale with the warmest + protestations of eternal love, "My poor father!" she burst forth, "and was + this to be the end of all thy precautions?—This, that the son of him + that disgraced and banished thee, should hold such language to your + daughter?" + </p> + <p> + "You err, Alice, you err," cried Julian eagerly. "That I hold this + language—that the son of Peveril addresses thus the daughter of your + father—that he thus kneels to you for forgiveness of injuries which + passed when we were both infants, shows the will of Heaven, that in our + affection should be quenched the discord of our parents. What else could + lead those who parted infants on the hills of Derbyshire, to meet thus in + the valleys of Man?" + </p> + <p> + Alice, however new such a scene, and, above all, her own emotions, might + be, was highly endowed with that exquisite delicacy which is imprinted in + the female heart, to give warning of the slightest approach to impropriety + in a situation like hers. + </p> + <p> + "Rise, rise, Master Peveril," she said; "do not do yourself and me this + injustice—we have done both wrong—very wrong; but my fault was + done in ignorance. O God! my poor father, who needs comfort so much—is + it for me to add to his misfortunes? Rise!" she added more firmly; "if you + retain this unbecoming posture any longer, I will leave the room and you + shall never see me more." + </p> + <p> + The commanding tone of Alice overawed the impetuosity of her lover, who + took in silence a seat removed to some distance from hers, and was again + about to speak. "Julian," said she in a milder tone, "you have spoken + enough, and more than enough. Would you had left me in the pleasing dream + in which I could have listened to you for ever! but the hour of wakening + is arrived." Peveril waited the prosecution of her speech as a criminal + while he waits his doom; for he was sufficiently sensible that an answer, + delivered not certainly without emotion, but with firmness and resolution, + was not to be interrupted. "We have done wrong," she repeated, "very + wrong; and if we now separate for ever, the pain we may feel will be but a + just penalty for our error. We should never have met: meeting, we should + part as soon as possible. Our farther intercourse can but double our pain + at parting. Farewell, Julian; and forget we ever have seen each other!" + </p> + <p> + "Forget!" said Julian; "never, never. To <i>you</i>, it is easy to speak + the word—to think the thought. To <i>me</i>, an approach to either + can only be by utter destruction. Why should you doubt that the feud of + our fathers, like so many of which we have heard, might be appeased by our + friendship? You are my only friend. I am the only one whom Heaven has + assigned to you. Why should we separate for the fault of others, which + befell when we were but children?" + </p> + <p> + "You speak in vain, Julian," said Alice; "I pity you—perhaps I pity + myself—indeed, I should pity myself, perhaps, the most of the two; + for you will go forth to new scenes and new faces, and will soon forget + me; but, I, remaining in this solitude, how shall <i>I</i> forget?—that, + however, is not now the question—I can bear my lot, and it commands + us to part." + </p> + <p> + "Hear me yet a moment," said Peveril; "this evil is not, cannot be + remediless. I will go to my father,—I will use the intercession of + my mother, to whom he can refuse nothing—I will gain their consent—they + have no other child—and they must consent, or lose him for ever. + Say, Alice, if I come to you with my parents' consent to my suit, will you + again say, with that tone so touching and so sad, yet so incredibly + determined—Julian, we must part?" Alice was silent. "Cruel girl, + will you not even deign to answer me?" said her lover. + </p> + <p> + "I would refer you to my father," said Alice, blushing and casting her + eyes down; but instantly raising them again, she repeated, in a firmer and + a sadder tone, "Yes, Julian, I would refer you to my father; and you would + find that your pilot, Hope, had deceived you; and that you had but escaped + the quicksands to fall upon the rocks." + </p> + <p> + "I would that could be tried!" said Julian. "Methinks I could persuade + your father that in ordinary eyes our alliance is not undesirable. My + family have fortune, rank, long descent—all that fathers look for + when they bestow a daughter's hand." + </p> + <p> + "All this would avail you nothing," said Alice. "The spirit of my father + is bent upon the things of another world; and if he listened to hear you + out, it would be but to tell you that he spurned your offers." + </p> + <p> + "You know not—you know not, Alice," said Julian. "Fire can soften + iron—thy father's heart cannot be so hard, or his prejudices so + strong, but I shall find some means to melt him. Forbid me not—Oh, + forbid me not at least the experiment!" + </p> + <p> + "I can but advise," said Alice; "I can forbid you nothing; for, to forbid, + implies power to command obedience. But if you will be wise, and listen to + me—Here, and on this spot, we part for ever!" + </p> + <p> + "Not so, by Heaven!" said Julian, whose bold and sanguine temper scarce + saw difficulty in attaining aught which he desired. "We now part, indeed, + but it is that I may return armed with my parents' consent. They desire + that I should marry—in their last letters they pressed it more + openly—they shall have their desire; and such a bride as I will + present to them has not graced their house since the Conqueror gave it + origin. Farewell, Alice! Farewell, for a brief space!" + </p> + <p> + She replied, "Farewell, Julian! Farewell for ever!" + </p> + <p> + Julian, within a week of this interview, was at Martindale Castle, with + the view of communicating his purpose. But the task which seems easy at a + distance, proves as difficult, upon a nearer approach, as the fording of a + river, which from afar appeared only a brook. There lacked not + opportunities of entering upon the subject; for in the first ride which he + took with his father, the Knight resumed the subject of his son's + marriage, and liberally left the lady to his choice; but under the strict + proviso, that she was of a loyal and an honourable family;—if she + had fortune, it was good and well, or rather, it was better than well; but + if she was poor, why, "there is still some picking," said Sir Geoffrey, + "on the bones of the old estate; and Dame Margaret and I will be content + with the less, that you young folks may have your share of it. I am turned + frugal already, Julian. You see what a north-country shambling bit of a + Galloway nag I ride upon—a different beast, I wot, from my own old + Black Hastings, who had but one fault, and that was his wish to turn down + Moultrassie avenue." + </p> + <p> + "Was that so great a fault?" said Julian, affecting indifference, while + his heart was trembling, as it seemed to him, almost in his very throat. + </p> + <p> + "It used to remind me of that base, dishonourable Presbyterian fellow, + Bridgenorth," said Sir Geoffrey; "and I would as lief think of a toad:—they + say he has turned Independent, to accomplish the full degree of rascality.—I + tell you, Gill, I turned off the cow-boy, for gathering nuts in his woods—I + would hang a dog that would so much as kill a hare there.—But what + is the matter with you? You look pale." + </p> + <p> + Julian made some indifferent answer, but too well understood, from the + language and tone which his father used, that his prejudices against + Alice's father were both deep and envenomed, as those of country gentlemen + often become, who, having little to do or think of, are but too apt to + spend their time in nursing and cherishing petty causes of wrath against + their next neighbours. + </p> + <p> + In the course of the same day, he mentioned the Bridgenorth to his mother, + as if in a casual manner. But the Lady Peveril instantly conjured him + never to mention the name, especially in his father's presence. + </p> + <p> + "Was that Major Bridgenorth, of whom I have heard the name mentioned," + said Julian, "so very bad a neighbour?" + </p> + <p> + "I do not say so," said Lady Peveril; "nay, we were more than once obliged + to him, in the former unhappy times; but your father and he took some + passages so ill at each other's hands, that the least allusion to him + disturbs Sir Geoffrey's temper, in a manner quite unusual, and which, now + that his health is somewhat impaired, is sometimes alarming to me. For + Heaven's sake, then, my dear Julian, avoid upon all occasions the + slightest allusion to Moultrassie, or any of its inhabitants." + </p> + <p> + This warning was so seriously given, that Julian himself saw that + mentioning his secret purpose would be the sure way to render it abortive, + and therefore he returned disconsolate to the Isle. + </p> + <p> + Peveril had the boldness, however, to make the best he could of what had + happened, by requesting an interview with Alice, in order to inform her + what had passed betwixt his parents and him on her account. It was with + great difficulty that this boon was obtained; and Alice Bridgenorth showed + no slight degree of displeasure, when she discovered, after much + circumlocution, and many efforts to give an air of importance to what he + had to communicate, that all amounted but to this, that Lady Peveril + continued to retain a favourable opinion of her father, Major Bridgenorth, + which Julian would fain have represented as an omen of their future more + perfect reconciliation. + </p> + <p> + "I did not think you would thus have trifled with me, Master Peveril," + said Alice, assuming an air of dignity; "but I will take care to avoid + such intrusion in future—I request you will not again visit the + Black Fort; and I entreat of you, good Mistress Debbitch, that you will no + longer either encourage or permit this gentleman's visits, as the result + of such persecution will be to compel me to appeal to my aunt and father + for another place of residence, and perhaps also for another and more + prudent companion." + </p> + <p> + This last hint struck Mistress Deborah with so much terror, that she + joined her ward in requiring and demanding Julian's instant absence, and + he was obliged to comply with their request. But the courage of a youthful + lover is not easily subdued; and Julian, after having gone through the + usual round of trying to forget his ungrateful mistress, and entertaining + his passion with augmented violence, ended by the visit to the Black Fort, + the beginning of which we narrated in the last chapter. + </p> + <p> + We then left him anxious for, yet almost fearful of, an interview with + Alice, which he prevailed upon Deborah to solicit; and such was the tumult + of his mind, that, while he traversed the parlour, it seemed to him that + the dark melancholy eyes of the slaughtered Christian's portrait followed + him wherever he went, with the fixed, chill, and ominous glance, which + announced to the enemy of his race mishap and misfortune. + </p> + <p> + The door of the apartment opened at length, and these visions were + dissipated. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0013" id="link2HCH0013"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIII + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Parents have flinty hearts! No tears can move them. + —OTWAY. +</pre> + <p> + When Alice Bridgenorth at length entered the parlour where her anxious + lover had so long expected her, it was with a slow step, and a composed + manner. Her dress was arranged with an accurate attention to form, which + at once enhanced the appearance of its puritanic simplicity, and struck + Julian as a bad omen; for although the time bestowed upon the toilet may, + in many cases, intimate the wish to appear advantageously at such an + interview, yet a ceremonious arrangement of attire is very much allied + with formality, and a preconceived determination to treat a lover with + cold politeness. + </p> + <p> + The sad-coloured gown—the pinched and plaited cap, which carefully + obscured the profusion of long dark-brown hair—the small ruff, and + the long sleeves, would have appeared to great disadvantage on a shape + less graceful than Alice Bridgenorth's; but an exquisite form, though not, + as yet, sufficiently rounded in the outlines to produce the perfection of + female beauty, was able to sustain and give grace even to this unbecoming + dress. Her countenance, fair and delicate, with eyes of hazel, and a brow + of alabaster, had, notwithstanding, less regular beauty than her form, and + might have been justly subjected to criticism. There was, however, a life + and spirit in her gaiety, and a depth of sentiment in her gravity, which + made Alice, in conversation with the very few persons with whom she + associated, so fascinating in her manners and expression, whether of + language or countenance—so touching, also, in her simplicity and + purity of thought, that brighter beauties might have been overlooked in + her company. It was no wonder, therefore, that an ardent character like + Julian, influenced by these charms, as well as by the secrecy and mystery + attending his intercourse with Alice, should prefer the recluse of the + Black Fort to all others with whom he had become acquainted in general + society. + </p> + <p> + His heart beat high as she came into the apartment, and it was almost + without an attempt to speak that his profound obeisance acknowledged her + entrance. + </p> + <p> + "This is a mockery, Master Peveril," said Alice, with an effort to speak + firmly, which yet was disconcerted by a slightly tremulous inflection of + voice—"a mockery, and a cruel one. You come to this lone place, + inhabited only by two women, too simple to command your absence—too + weak to enforce it—you come, in spite of my earnest request—to + the neglect of your own time—to the prejudice, I may fear, of my + character—you abuse the influence you possess over the simple person + to whom I am entrusted—All this you do, and think to make up by low + reverences and constrained courtesy! Is this honourable, or is it fair?—Is + it," she added, after a moment's hesitation—"is it kind?" + </p> + <p> + The tremulous accent fell especially on the last word she uttered, and it + was spoken in a low tone of gentle reproach, which went to Julian's heart. + </p> + <p> + "If," said he, "there was a mode by which, at the peril of my life, Alice, + I could show my regard—my respect—my devoted tenderness—the + danger would be dearer to me than ever was pleasure." + </p> + <p> + "You have said such things often," said Alice, "and they are such as I + ought not to hear, and do not desire to hear. I have no tasks to impose on + you—no enemies to be destroyed—no need or desire of protection—no + wish, Heaven knows, to expose you to danger—It is your visits here + alone to which danger attaches. You have but to rule your own wilful + temper—to turn your thoughts and your cares elsewhere, and I can + have nothing to ask—nothing to wish for. Use your own reason—consider + the injury you do yourself—the injustice you do us—and let me, + once more, in fair terms, entreat you to absent yourself from this place—till—till——" + </p> + <p> + She paused, and Julian eagerly interrupted her.—"Till when, Alice?—till + when?—impose on me any length of absence which your severity can + inflict, short of a final separation—Say, Begone for years, but + return when these years are over; and, slow and wearily as they must pass + away, still the thought that they must at length have their period, will + enable me to live through them. Let me, then, conjure thee, Alice, to name + a date—to fix a term—to say till <i>when!</i>" + </p> + <p> + "Till you can bear to think of me only as a friend and sister." + </p> + <p> + "That is a sentence of eternal banishment indeed!" said Julian; "it is + seeming, no doubt, to fix a term of exile, but attaching to it an + impossible condition." + </p> + <p> + "And why impossible, Julian?" said Alice, in a tone of persuasion; "were + we not happier ere you threw the mask from your own countenance, and tore + the veil from my foolish eyes? Did we not meet with joy, spend our time + happily, and part cheerily, because we transgressed no duty, and incurred + no self-reproach? Bring back that state of happy ignorance, and you shall + have no reason to call me unkind. But while you form schemes which I know + to be visionary, and use language of such violence and passion, you shall + excuse me if I now, and once for all, declare, that since Deborah shows + herself unfit for the trust reposed in her, and must needs expose me to + persecutions of this nature, I will write to my father, that he may fix me + another place of residence; and in the meanwhile I will take shelter with + my aunt at Kirk-Truagh." + </p> + <p> + "Hear me, unpitying girl," said Peveril, "hear me, and you shall see how + devoted I am to obedience, in all that I can do to oblige you! You say you + were happy when we spoke not on such topics—well—at all + expense of my own suppressed feelings, that happy period shall return. I + will meet you—walk with you—read with you—but only as a + brother would with his sister, or a friend with his friend; the thoughts I + may nourish, be they of hope or of despair, my tongue shall not give birth + to, and therefore I cannot offend; Deborah shall be ever by your side, and + her presence shall prevent my even hinting at what might displease you—only + do not make a crime to me of those thoughts which are the dearest part of + my existence; for believe me it were better and kinder to rob me of + existence itself." + </p> + <p> + "This is the mere ecstasy of passion, Julian," answered Alice Bridgenorth; + "that which is unpleasant, our selfish and stubborn will represents as + impossible. I have no confidence in the plan you propose—no + confidence in your resolution, and less than none in the protection of + Deborah. Till you can renounce, honestly and explicitly, the wishes you + have lately expressed, we must be strangers;—and could you renounce + them even at this moment, it were better that we should part for a long + time; and, for Heaven's sake, let it be as soon as possible—perhaps + it is even now too late to prevent some unpleasant accident—I + thought I heard a noise." + </p> + <p> + "It was Deborah," answered Julian. "Be not afraid, Alice; we are secure + against surprise." + </p> + <p> + "I know not," said Alice, "what you mean by such security—I have + nothing to hide. I sought not this interview; on the contrary, averted it + as long as I could—and am now most desirous to break it off." + </p> + <p> + "And wherefore, Alice, since you say it must be our last? Why should you + shake the sand which is passing so fast? the very executioner hurries not + the prayers of the wretches upon the scaffold.—And see you not—I + will argue as coldly as you can desire—see you not that you are + breaking your own word, and recalling the hope which yourself held out to + me?" + </p> + <p> + "What hope have I suggested? What word have I given, Julian?" answered + Alice. "You yourself build wild hopes in the air, and accuse me of + destroying what had never any earthly foundation. Spare yourself, Julian—spare + me—and in mercy to us both depart, and return not again till you can + be more reasonable." + </p> + <p> + "Reasonable?" replied Julian; "it is you, Alice, who will deprive me + altogether of reason. Did you not say, that if our parents could be + brought to consent to our union, you would no longer oppose my suit?" + </p> + <p> + "No—no—no," said Alice eagerly, and blushing deeply,—"I + did not say so, Julian—it was your own wild imagination which put + construction on my silence and my confusion." + </p> + <p> + "You do <i>not</i> say so, then?" answered Julian; "and if all other + obstacles were removed, I should find one in the cold flinty bosom of her + who repays the most devoted and sincere affection with contempt and + dislike?—Is that," he added, in a deep tone of feeling—"is + that what Alice Bridgenorth says to Julian Peveril?" + </p> + <p> + "Indeed—indeed, Julian," said the almost weeping girl, "I do not say + so—I say nothing, and I ought not to say anything concerning what I + might do, in a state of things which can never take place. Indeed, Julian, + you ought not thus to press me. Unprotected as I am—wishing you well—very + well—why should you urge me to say or do what would lessen me in my + own eyes? to own affection for one from whom fate has separated me for + ever? It is ungenerous—it is cruel—it is seeking a momentary + and selfish gratification to yourself, at the expense of every feeling + which I ought to entertain." + </p> + <p> + "You have said enough, Alice," said Julian, with sparkling eyes; "you have + said enough in deprecating my urgency, and I will press you no farther. + But you overrate the impediments which lie betwixt us—they must and + shall give way." + </p> + <p> + "So you said before," answered Alice, "and with what probability, your own + account may show. You dared not to mention the subject to your own father—how + should you venture to mention it to mine?" + </p> + <p> + "That I will soon enable you to decide upon. Major Bridgenorth, by my + mother's account, is a worthy and an estimable man. I will remind him, + that to my mother's care he owes the dearest treasure and comfort of his + life; and I will ask him if it is a just retribution to make that mother + childless. Let me but know where to find him, Alice, and you shall soon + hear if I have feared to plead my cause with him." + </p> + <p> + "Alas!" answered Alice, "you well know my uncertainty as to my dear + father's residence. How often has it been my earnest request to him that + he would let me share his solitary abode, or his obscure wanderings! But + the short and infrequent visits which he makes to this house are all that + he permits me of his society. Something I might surely do, however little, + to alleviate the melancholy by which he is oppressed." + </p> + <p> + "Something we might both do," said Peveril. "How willingly would I aid you + in so pleasing a task! All old griefs should be forgotten—all old + friendships revived. My father's prejudices are those of an Englishman—strong, + indeed, but not insurmountable by reason. Tell me, then, where Major + Bridgenorth is, and leave the rest to me; or let me but know by what + address your letters reach him, and I will forthwith essay to discover his + dwelling." + </p> + <p> + "Do not attempt it, I charge you," said Alice. "He is already a man of + sorrows; and what would he think were I capable of entertaining a suit so + likely to add to them? Besides, I could not tell you, if I would, where he + is now to be found. My letters reach him from time to time, by means of my + aunt Christian; but of his address I am entirely ignorant." + </p> + <p> + "Then, by Heaven," answered Julian, "I will watch his arrival in this + island, and in this house; and ere he has locked thee in his arms, he + shall answer to me on the subject of my suit." + </p> + <p> + "Then demand that answer now," said a voice from without the door, which + was at the same time slowly opened—"Demand that answer now, for here + stands Ralph Bridgenorth." + </p> + <p> + As he spoke, he entered the apartment with his usual slow and sedate step—raised + his flapp'd and steeple-crowned hat from his brows, and, standing in the + midst of the room, eyed alternately his daughter and Julian Peveril with a + fixed and penetrating glance. + </p> + <p> + "Father!" said Alice, utterly astonished, and terrified besides, by his + sudden appearance at such a conjuncture,—"Father, I am not to + blame." + </p> + <p> + "Of that anon, Alice," said Bridgenorth; "meantime retire to your + apartment—I have that to say to this youth which will not endure + your presence." + </p> + <p> + "Indeed—indeed, father," said Alice, alarmed at what she supposed + these words indicated, "Julian is as little to be blamed as I! It was + chance, it was fortune, which caused our meeting together." Then suddenly + rushing forward, she threw her arms around her father, saying, "Oh, do him + no injury—he meant no wrong! Father, you were wont to be a man of + reason and religious peace." + </p> + <p> + "And wherefore should I not be so now, Alice?" said Bridgenorth, raising + his daughter from the ground, on which she had almost sunk in the + earnestness of her supplication. "Dost thou know aught, maiden, which + should inflame my anger against this young man, more than reason or + religion may bridle? Go—go to thy chamber. Compose thine own + passions—learn to rule these—and leave it to me to deal with + this stubborn young man." + </p> + <p> + Alice arose, and, with her eyes fixed on the ground, retired slowly from + the apartment. Julian followed her steps with his eyes till the last wave + of her garment was visible at the closing door; then turned his looks to + Major Bridgenorth, and then sunk them on the ground. The Major continued + to regard him in profound silence; his looks were melancholy and even + austere; but there was nothing which indicated either agitation or keen + resentment. He motioned to Julian to take a seat, and assumed one himself. + After which he opened the conversation in the following manner:— + </p> + <p> + "You seemed but now, young gentleman, anxious to learn where I was to be + found. Such I at least conjectured, from the few expressions which I + chanced to overhear; for I made bold, though it may be contrary to the + code of modern courtesy, to listen a moment or two, in order to gather + upon what subject so young a man as you entertained so young a woman as + Alice, in a private interview." + </p> + <p> + "I trust, sir," said Julian, rallying spirits in what he felt to be a case + of extremity, "you have heard nothing on my part which has given offence + to a gentleman, whom, though unknown, I am bound to respect so highly." + </p> + <p> + "On the contrary," said Bridgenorth, with the same formal gravity, "I am + pleased to find that your business is, or appears to be, with me, rather + than with my daughter. I only think you had done better to have entrusted + it to me in the first instance, as my sole concern." + </p> + <p> + The utmost sharpness of attention which Julian applied, could not discover + if Bridgenorth spoke seriously or ironically to the above purpose. He was, + however, quick-witted beyond his experience, and was internally determined + to endeavour to discover something of the character and the temper of him + with whom he spoke. For that purpose, regulating his reply in the same + tone with Bridgenorth's observation, he said, that not having the + advantage to know his place of residence, he had applied for information + to his daughter. + </p> + <p> + "Who is now known to you for the first time?" said Bridgenorth. "Am I so + to understand you?" + </p> + <p> + "By no means," answered Julian, looking down; "I have been known to your + daughter for many years; and what I wished to say, respects both her + happiness and my own." + </p> + <p> + "I must understand you," said Bridgenorth, "even as carnal men understand + each other on the matters of this world. You are attached to my daughter + by the cords of love; I have long known this." + </p> + <p> + "You, Master Bridgenorth?" exclaimed Peveril—"<i>You</i> have long + known it?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, young man. Think you, that as the father of an only child, I could + have suffered Alice Bridgenorth—the only living pledge of her who is + now an angel in heaven—to have remained in this seclusion without + the surest knowledge of all her material actions? I have, in person, seen + more, both of her and of you, than you could be aware of; and when absent + in the body, I had the means of maintaining the same superintendence. + Young man, they say that such love as you entertain for my daughter + teaches much subtilty; but believe not that it can overreach the affection + which a widowed father bears to an only child." + </p> + <p> + "If," said Julian, his heart beating thick and joyfully, "if you have + known this intercourse so long, may I not hope that it has not met your + disapprobation?" + </p> + <p> + The Major paused for an instant, and then answered, "In some respects, + certainly not. Had it done so—had there seemed aught on your side, + or on my daughter's, to have rendered your visits here dangerous to her, + or displeasing to me, she had not been long the inhabitant of this + solitude, or of this island. But be not so hasty as to presume, that all + which you may desire in this matter can be either easily or speedily + accomplished." + </p> + <p> + "I foresee, indeed, difficulties," answered Julian; "but with your kind + acquiescence, they are such as I trust to remove. My father is generous—my + mother is candid and liberal. They loved you once; I trust they will love + you again. I will be the mediator betwixt you—peace and harmony + shall once more inhabit our neighbourhood, and——" + </p> + <p> + Bridgenorth interrupted him with a grim smile; for such it seemed, as it + passed over a face of deep melancholy. "My daughter well said, but short + while past, that you were a dreamer of dreams—an architect of plans + and hopes fantastic as the visions of the night. It is a great thing you + ask of me;—the hand of my only child—the sum of my worldly + substance, though that is but dross in comparison. You ask the key of the + only fountain from which I may yet hope to drink one pleasant draught; you + ask to be the sole and absolute keeper of my earthly happiness—and + what have you offered, or what have you to offer in return, for the + surrender you require of me?" + </p> + <p> + "I am but too sensible," said Peveril, abashed at his own hasty + conclusions, "how difficult it may be." + </p> + <p> + "Nay, but interrupt me not," replied Bridgenorth, "till I show you the + amount of what you offer me in exchange for a boon, which, whatever may be + its intrinsic value, is earnestly desired by you, and comprehends all that + is valuable on earth which I have it in my power to bestow. You may have + heard that in the late times I was the antagonist of your father's + principles and his profane faction, but not the enemy of his person." + </p> + <p> + "I have ever heard," replied Julian, "much the contrary; and it was but + now that I reminded you that you had been his friend." + </p> + <p> + "Ay. When he was in affliction and I in prosperity, I was neither + unwilling, nor altogether unable, to show myself such. Well, the tables + are turned—the times are changed. A peaceful and unoffending man + might have expected from a neighbour, now powerful in his turn, such + protection, when walking in the paths of the law, as all men, subjects of + the same realm, have a right to expect even from perfect strangers. What + chances? I pursue, with the warrant of the King and law, a murderess, + bearing on her hand the blood of my near connection, and I had, in such a + case, a right to call on every liege subject to render assistance to the + execution. My late friendly neighbour, bound, as a man and a magistrate, + to give ready assistance to a legal action—bound, as a grateful and + obliged friend, to respect my rights and my person—thrusts himself + betwixt me—me, the avenger of blood—and my lawful captive; + beats me to the earth, at once endangering my life, and, in mere human + eyes, sullying mine honour; and under his protection, the Midianitish + woman reaches, like a sea-eagle, the nest which she hath made in the + wave-surrounded rocks, and remains there till gold, duly administered at + Court, wipes out all memory of her crime, and baffles the vengeance due to + the memory of the best and bravest of men.—But," he added, + apostrophising the portrait of Christian, "thou art not yet forgotten, my + fair-haired William! The vengeance which dogs thy murderess is slow,—but + it is sure!" + </p> + <p> + There was a pause of some moments, which Julian Peveril, willing to hear + to what conclusion Major Bridgenorth was finally to arrive, did not care + to interrupt. Accordingly, in a few minutes, the latter proceeded.—"These + things," he said, "I recall not in bitterness, so far as they are personal + to me—I recall them not in spite of heart, though they have been the + means of banishing me from my place of residence, where my fathers dwelt, + and where my earthly comforts lie interred. But the public cause sets + further strife betwixt your father and me. Who so active as he to execute + the fatal edict of black St. Bartholomew's day, when so many hundreds of + gospel-preachers were expelled from house and home—from hearth and + altar—from church and parish, to make room for belly-gods and + thieves? Who, when a devoted few of the Lord's people were united to lift + the fallen standard, and once more advance the good cause, was the + readiest to break their purpose—to search for, persecute, and + apprehend them? Whose breath did I feel warm on my neck—whose naked + sword was thrust within a foot of my body, whilst I lurked darkling, like + a thief in concealment, in the house of my fathers?—It was Geoffrey + Peveril's—it was your father's!—What can you answer to all + this, or how can you reconcile it with your present wishes? + </p> + <p> + "These things I point out to you, Julian, that I may show you how + impossible, in the eyes of a merely worldly man, would be the union which + you are desirous of. But Heaven hath at times opened a door, where man + beholds no means of issue. Julian, your mother, for one to whom the truth + is unknown, is, after the fashion of the world, one of the best, and one + of the wisest of women; and Providence, which gave her so fair a form, and + tenanted that form with a mind as pure as the original frailty of our vile + nature will permit, means not, I trust, that she shall continue to the end + to be a vessel of wrath and perdition. Of your father I say nothing—he + is what the times and example of others, and the counsels of his lordly + priest, have made him; and of him, once more, I say nothing, save that I + have power over him, which ere now he might have felt, but that there is + one within his chambers, who might have suffered in his suffering. Nor do + I wish to root up your ancient family. If I prize not your boast of family + honours and pedigree, I would not willingly destroy them; more than I + would pull down a moss-grown tower, or hew to the ground an ancient oak, + save for the straightening of the common path, and advantage of the + public. I have, therefore, no resentment against the humbled House of + Peveril—nay, I have regard to it in its depression." + </p> + <p> + He here made a second pause, as if he expected Julian to say something. + But notwithstanding the ardour with which the young man had pressed his + suit, he was too much trained in ideas of the importance of his family, + and in the better habit of respect for his parents, to hear, without + displeasure, some part of Bridgenorth's discourse. + </p> + <p> + "The House of Peveril," he replied, "was never humbled." + </p> + <p> + "Had you said the sons of that House had never been <i>humble</i>," + answered Bridgenorth, "you would have come nearer the truth.—Are <i>you</i> + not humbled? Live you not here, the lackey of a haughty woman, the + play-companion of an empty youth? If you leave this Isle, and go to the + Court of England, see what regard will there be paid to the old pedigree + that deduces your descent from kings and conquerors. A scurril or obscene + jest, an impudent carriage, a laced cloak, a handful of gold, and the + readiness to wager it on a card, or a die, will better advance you at the + Court of Charles, than your father's ancient name, and slavish devotion of + blood and fortune to the cause of <i>his</i> father." + </p> + <p> + "That is, indeed, but too probable," said Peveril; "but the Court shall be + no element of mine. I will live like my fathers, among my people, care for + their comforts, decide their differences——" + </p> + <p> + "Build Maypoles, and dance around them," said Bridgenorth, with another of + those grim smiles which passed over his features like the light of a + sexton's torch, as it glares and is reflected by the window of the church, + when he comes from locking a funeral vault. "No, Julian, these are not + times in which, by the dreaming drudgery of a country magistrate, and the + petty cares of a country proprietor, a man can serve his unhappy country. + There are mighty designs afloat, and men are called to make their choice + betwixt God and Baal. The ancient superstition—the abomination of + our fathers—is raising its head, and flinging abroad its snares, + under the protection of the princes of the earth; but she raises not her + head unmarked or unwatched; the true English hearts are as thousands, + which wait but a signal to arise as one man, and show the kings of the + earth that they have combined in vain! We will cast their cords from us—the + cup of their abominations we will not taste." + </p> + <p> + "You speak in darkness, Master Bridgenorth," said Peveril. "Knowing so + much of me, you may, perhaps, also be aware, that I at least have seen too + much of the delusions of Rome, to desire that they should be propagated at + home." + </p> + <p> + "Else, wherefore do I speak to thee friendly and so free?" said + Bridgenorth. "Do I not know, with what readiness of early wit you baffled + the wily attempts of the woman's priest, to seduce thee from the + Protestant faith? Do I not know, how thou wast beset when abroad, and that + thou didst both hold thine own faith, and secure the wavering belief of + thy friend? Said I not, this was done like the son of Margaret Peveril? + Said I not, he holdeth, as yet, but the dead letter—but the seed + which is sown shall one day sprout and quicken?—Enough, however, of + this. For to-day this is thy habitation. I will see in thee neither the + servant of the daughter of Eshbaal, nor the son of him who pursued my + life, and blemished my honours; but thou shalt be to me, for this day, as + the child of her, without whom my house had been extinct." + </p> + <p> + So saying, he stretched out his thin, bony hand, and grasped that of + Julian Peveril; but there was such a look of mourning in his welcome, that + whatever delight the youth anticipated, spending so long a time in the + neighbourhood of Alice Bridgenorth, perhaps in her society, or however + strongly he felt the prudence of conciliating her father's good-will, he + could not help feeling as if his heart was chilled in his company. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0014" id="link2HCH0014"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIV + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + This day at least is friendship's—on the morrow + Let strife come an she will. + —OTWAY. +</pre> + <p> + Deborah Debbitch, summoned by her master, now made her appearance, with + her handkerchief at her eyes, and an appearance of great mental trouble. + "It was not my fault, Major Bridgenorth," she said; "how could I help it? + like will to like—the boy would come—the girl would see him." + </p> + <p> + "Peace, foolish woman," said Bridgenorth, "and hear what I have got to + say." + </p> + <p> + "I know what your honour has to say well enough," said Deborah. "Service, + I wot, is no inheritance nowadays—some are wiser than other some—if + I had not been wheedled away from Martindale, I might have had a house of + mine own by this time." + </p> + <p> + "Peace, idiot!" said Bridgenorth; but so intent was Deborah on her + vindication, that he could but thrust the interjection, as it were + edgewise, between her exclamations, which followed as thick as is usual in + cases, where folks endeavour to avert deserved censure by a clamorous + justification ere the charge be brought. + </p> + <p> + "No wonder she was cheated," she said, "out of sight of her own interest, + when it was to wait on pretty Miss Alice. All your honour's gold should + never have tempted me, but that I knew she was but a dead castaway, poor + innocent, if she were taken away from my lady or me.—And so this is + the end on't!—up early, and down late—and this is all my + thanks!—But your honour had better take care what you do—she + has the short cough yet sometimes—and should take physic, spring and + fall." + </p> + <p> + "Peace, chattering fool!" said her master, so soon as her failing breath + gave him an opportunity to strike in, "thinkest thou I knew not of this + young gentleman's visits to the Black Fort, and that, if they had + displeased me, I would not have known how to stop them?" + </p> + <p> + "Did I know that your honour knew of his visits!" exclaimed Deborah, in a + triumphant tone,—for, like most of her condition, she never sought + farther for her defence than a lie, however inconsistent and improbable—"<i>Did</i> + I know that your honour knew of it!—Why, how should I have permitted + his visits else? I wonder what your honour takes me for! Had I not been + sure it was the thing in this world that your honour most desired would I + have presumed to lend it a hand forward? I trust I know my duty better. + Hear if I ever asked another youngster into the house, save himself—for + I knew your honour was wise, and quarrels cannot last for ever, and love + begins where hatred ends; and, to be sure, they love as if they were born + one for the other—and then, the estates of Moultrassie and + Martindale suit each other like sheath and knife." + </p> + <p> + "Parrot of a woman, hold your tongue!" said Bridgenorth, his patience + almost completely exhausted; "or, if you will prate, let it be to your + playfellows in the kitchen, and bid them get ready some dinner presently, + for Master Peveril is far from home." + </p> + <p> + "That I will, and with all my heart," said Deborah; "and if there are a + pair of fatter fowls in Man than shall clap their wings on the table + presently, your honour shall call me goose as well as parrot." She then + left the apartment. + </p> + <p> + "It is to such a woman as that," said Bridgenorth, looking after her + significantly, "that you conceived me to have abandoned the charge of my + only child! But enough of this subject—we will walk abroad, if you + will, while she is engaged in a province fitter for her understanding." + </p> + <p> + So saying, he left the house, accompanied by Julian Peveril, and they were + soon walking side by side, as if they had been old acquaintances. + </p> + <p> + It may have happened to many of our readers, as it has done to ourselves, + to be thrown by accident into society with some individual whose claims to + what is called a <i>serious</i> character stand considerably higher than + our own, and with whom, therefore, we have conceived ourselves likely to + spend our time in a very stiff and constrained manner; while, on the other + hand, our destined companion may have apprehended some disgust from the + supposed levity and thoughtless gaiety of a disposition that when we, with + that urbanity and good-humour which is our principal characteristic, have + accommodated ourself to our companion, by throwing as much seriousness + into our conversation as our habits will admit, he, on the other hand, + moved by our liberal example, hath divested his manners of part of their + austerity; and our conversation has, in consequence, been of that pleasant + texture, betwixt the useful and agreeable, which best resembles "the + fairy-web of night and day," usually called in prose the twilight. It is + probable both parties may, on such occasions, have been the better for + their encounter, even if it went no farther than to establish for the time + a community of feeling between men, who, separated more perhaps by temper + than by principle, are too apt to charge each other with profane frivolity + on the one hand, or fanaticism on the other. + </p> + <p> + It fared thus in Peveril's walk with Bridgenorth, and in the conversation + which he held with him. + </p> + <p> + Carefully avoiding the subject on which he had already spoken, Major + Bridgenorth turned his conversation chiefly on foreign travel, and on the + wonders he had seen in distant countries, and which he appeared to have + marked with a curious and observant eye. This discourse made the time fly + light away; for although the anecdotes and observations thus communicated + were all tinged with the serious and almost gloomy spirit of the narrator, + they yet contained traits of interest and of wonder, such as are usually + interesting to a youthful ear, and were particularly so to Julian, who + had, in his disposition, some cast of the romantic and adventurous. + </p> + <p> + It appeared that Bridgenorth knew the south of France, and could tell many + stories of the French Huguenots, who already began to sustain those + vexations which a few years afterwards were summed up by the revocation of + the Edict of Nantz. He had even been in Hungary, for he spoke as from + personal knowledge of the character of several of the heads of the great + Protestant insurrection, which at this time had taken place under the + celebrated Tekeli; and laid down solid reasons why they were entitled to + make common cause with the Great Turk, rather than submit to the Pope of + Rome. He talked also of Savoy, where those of the reformed religion still + suffered a cruel persecution; and he mentioned with a swelling spirit, the + protection which Oliver had afforded to the oppressed Protestant Churches; + "therein showing himself," he added, "more fit to wield the supreme power, + than those who, claiming it by right of inheritance, use it only for their + own vain and voluptuous pursuits." + </p> + <p> + "I did not expect," said Peveril modestly, "to have heard Oliver's + panegyric from you, Master Bridgenorth." + </p> + <p> + "I do not panegyrise him," answered Bridgenorth; "I speak but truth of + that extraordinary man, now being dead, whom, when alive, I feared not to + withstand to his face. It is the fault of the present unhappy King, if he + make us look back with regret to the days when the nation was respected + abroad, and when devotion and sobriety were practised at home.—But I + mean not to vex your spirit by controversy. You have lived amongst those + who find it more easy and more pleasant to be the pensioners of France + than her controllers—to spend the money which she doles out to + themselves, than to check the tyranny with which she oppresses our poor + brethren of the religion. When the scales shall fall from thine eyes, all + this thou shalt see; and seeing, shalt learn to detest and despise it." + </p> + <p> + By this time they had completed their walk, and were returned to the Black + Fort, by a different path from that which had led them up the valley. The + exercise and the general tone of conversation had removed, in some degree, + the shyness and embarrassment which Peveril originally felt in + Bridgenorth's presence and which the tenor of his first remarks had rather + increased than diminished. Deborah's promised banquet was soon on the + board; and in simplicity as well as neatness and good order, answered the + character she had claimed for it. In one respect alone, there seemed some + inconsistency, perhaps a little affectation. Most of the dishes were of + silver, and the plates were of the same metal; instead of the trenchers + and pewter which Peveril had usually seen employed on similar occasions at + the Black Fort. + </p> + <p> + Presently, with the feeling of one who walks in a pleasant dream from + which he fears to awake, and whose delight is mingled with wonder and with + uncertainty, Julian Peveril found himself seated between Alice Bridgenorth + and her father—the being he most loved on earth, and the person whom + he had ever considered as the great obstacle to their intercourse. The + confusion of his mind was such, that he could scarcely reply to the + importunate civilities of Dame Deborah; who, seated with them at table in + her quality of governante, now dispensed the good things which had been + prepared under her own eye. + </p> + <p> + As for Alice she seemed to have found a resolution to play the mute; for + she answered not, excepting briefly, to the questions of Dame Debbitch; + nay, even when her father, which happened once or twice, attempted to + bring her forward in the conversation, she made no further reply than + respect for him rendered absolutely necessary. + </p> + <p> + Upon Bridgenorth himself, then, devolved the task of entertaining the + company; and contrary to his ordinary habits, he did not seem to shrink + from it. His discourse was not only easy, but almost cheerful, though ever + and anon crossed by some expressions indicative of natural and habitual + melancholy, or prophetic of future misfortune and woe. Flashes of + enthusiasm, too, shot along his conversation, gleaming like the + sheet-lightening of an autumn eve, which throws a strong, though momentary + illumination, across the sober twilight, and all the surrounding objects, + which, touched by it, assume a wilder and more striking character. In + general, however, Bridgenorth's remarks were plain and sensible; and as he + aimed at no graces of language, any ornament which they received arose out + of the interest with which they were impressed on his hearers. For + example, when Deborah, in the pride and vulgarity of her heart, called + Julian's attention to the plate from which they had been eating, + Bridgenorth seemed to think an apology necessary for such superfluous + expense. + </p> + <p> + "It was a symptom," he said, "of approaching danger, when such men, as + were not usually influenced by the vanities of life employed much money in + ornaments composed of the precious metals. It was a sign that the merchant + could not obtain a profit for the capital, which, for the sake of + security, he invested in this inert form. It was a proof that the noblemen + or gentlemen feared the rapacity of power, when they put their wealth into + forms the most portable and the most capable of being hidden; and it + showed the uncertainty of credit, when a man of judgment preferred the + actual possession of a mass of a silver to the convenience of a + goldsmith's or a banker's receipt. While a shadow of liberty remained," he + said, "domestic rights were last invaded; and, therefore, men disposed + upon their cupboards and tables the wealth which in these places would + remain longest, though not perhaps finally, sacred from the grasp of a + tyrannical government. But let there be a demand for capital to support a + profitable commerce, and the mass is at once consigned to the furnace, + and, ceasing to be a vain and cumbrous ornament of the banquet, becomes a + potent and active agent for furthering the prosperity of the country." + </p> + <p> + "In war, too," said Peveril, "plate has been found a ready resource." + </p> + <p> + "But too much so," answered Bridgenorth. "In the late times, the plate of + the nobles and gentry, with that of the colleges, and the sale of the + crown-jewels, enabled the King to make his unhappy stand, which prevented + matters returning to a state of peace and good order, until the sword had + attained an undue superiority both over King and Parliament." + </p> + <p> + He looked at Julian as he spoke, much as he who proves a horse offers some + object suddenly to his eyes, then watches to see if he starts or blenches + from it. But Julian's thoughts were too much bent on other topics to + manifest any alarm. His answer referred to a previous part of + Bridgenorth's discourse, and was not returned till after a brief pause. + "War, then," he said, "war, the grand impoverisher, is also a creator of + wealth which it wastes and devours?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes," replied Bridgenorth, "even as the sluice brings into action the + sleeping waters of the lake, which it finally drains. Necessity invents + arts and discovers means; and what necessity is sterner than that of civil + war? Therefore, even war is not in itself unmixed evil, being the creator + of impulses and energies which could not otherwise have existed in + society." + </p> + <p> + "Men should go to war, then," said Peveril, "that they may send their + silver plate to the mint, and eat from pewter dishes and wooden plates?" + </p> + <p> + "Not so, my son," said Bridgenorth. Then checking himself as he observed + the deep crimson in Julian's cheek and brow, he added, "I crave your + pardon for such familiarity; but I meant not to limit what I said even now + to such trifling consequences, although it may be something salutary to + tear men from their pomps and luxuries, and teach those to be Romans who + would otherwise be Sybarites. But I would say, that times of public + danger, as they call into circulation the miser's hoard and the proud + man's bullion, and so add to the circulating wealth of the country, do + also call into action many a brave and noble spirit, which would otherwise + lie torpid, give no example to the living, and bequeath no name to future + ages. Society knows not, and cannot know, the mental treasures which + slumber in her bosom, till necessity and opportunity call forth the + statesman and the soldier from the shades of lowly life to the parts they + are designed by Providence to perform, and the stations which nature had + qualified them to hold. So rose Oliver—so rose Milton—so rose + many another name which cannot be forgotten—even as the tempest + summons forth and displays the address of the mariner." + </p> + <p> + "You speak," said Peveril, "as if national calamity might be, in some + sort, an advantage." + </p> + <p> + "And if it were not so," replied Bridgenorth, "it had not existed in this + state of trial, where all temporal evil is alleviated by something good in + its progress or result, and where all that is good is close coupled with + that which is in itself evil." + </p> + <p> + "It must be a noble sight," said Julian, "to behold the slumbering + energies of a great mind awakened into energy, and to see it assume the + authority which is its due over spirits more meanly endowed." + </p> + <p> + "I once witnessed," said Bridgenorth, "something to the same effect; and + as the tale is brief, I will tell it you, if you will:—Amongst my + wanderings, the Transatlantic settlements have not escaped me; more + especially the country of New England, into which our native land has + shaken from her lap, as a drunkard flings from him his treasures, so much + that is precious in the eyes of God and of His children. There thousands + of our best and most godly men—such whose righteousness might come + of cities—are content to be the inhabitants of the desert, rather + encountering the unenlightened savages, than stooping to extinguish, under + the oppression practised in Britain, the light that is within their own + minds. There I remained for a time, during the wars which the colony + maintained with Philip, a great Indian Chief, or Sachem, as they were + called, who seemed a messenger sent from Satan to buffet them. His cruelty + was great—his dissimulation profound; and the skill and promptitude + with which he maintained a destructive and desultory warfare, inflicted + many dreadful calamities on the settlement. I was, by chance, at a small + village in the woods, more than thirty miles from Boston, and in its + situation exceedingly lonely, and surrounded with thickets. Nevertheless, + there was no idea of any danger from the Indians at that time, for men + trusted to the protection of a considerable body of troops who had taken + the field for protection of the frontiers, and who lay, or were supposed + to lie, betwixt the hamlet and the enemy's country. But they had to do + with a foe, whom the devil himself had inspired at once with cunning and + cruelty. It was on a Sabbath morning, when we had assembled to take sweet + counsel together in the Lord's house. Our temple was but constructed of + wooden logs; but when shall the chant of trained hirelings, or the + sounding of tin and brass tubes amid the aisles of a minster, arise so + sweetly to Heaven, as did the psalm in which we united at once our voices + and our hearts! An excellent worthy, who now sleeps in the Lord, Nehemia + Solsgrace, long the companion of my pilgrimage, had just begun to wrestle + in prayer, when a woman, with disordered looks and dishevelled hair, + entered our chapel in a distracted manner, screaming incessantly, 'The + Indians! The Indians!'—In that land no man dares separate himself + from his means of defence; and whether in the city or in the field, in the + ploughed land or the forest, men keep beside them their weapons, as did + the Jews at the rebuilding of the Temple. So we sallied forth with our + guns and pikes, and heard the whoop of these incarnate devils, already in + possession of a part of the town, and exercising their cruelty on the few + whom weighty causes or indisposition had withheld from public worship; and + it was remarked as a judgment, that, upon that bloody Sabbath, Adrian + Hanson, a Dutchman, a man well enough disposed towards man, but whose mind + was altogether given to worldly gain, was shot and scalped as he was + summing his weekly gains in his warehouse. In fine, there was much damage + done; and although our arrival and entrance into combat did in some sort + put them back, yet being surprised and confused, and having no appointed + leader of our band, the devilish enemy shot hard at us and had some + advantage. It was pitiful to hear the screams of women and children amid + the report of guns and the whistling of bullets, mixed with the ferocious + yells of these savages, which they term their war-whoop. Several houses in + the upper part of the village were soon on fire; and the roaring of the + flames, and crackling of the great beams as they blazed, added to the + horrible confusion; while the smoke which the wind drove against us gave + farther advantage to the enemy, who fought as it were, invisible, and + under cover, whilst we fell fast by their unerring fire. In this state of + confusion, and while we were about to adopt the desperate project of + evacuating the village, and, placing the women and children in the centre, + of attempting a retreat to the nearest settlement, it pleased Heaven to + send us unexpected assistance. A tall man, of a reverend appearance, whom + no one of us had ever seen before, suddenly was in the midst of us, as we + hastily agitated the resolution of retreating. His garments were of the + skin of the elk, and he wore sword and carried gun; I never saw anything + more august than his features, overshadowed by locks of grey hair, which + mingled with a long beard of the same colour. 'Men and brethren,' he said, + in a voice like that which turns back the flight, 'why sink your hearts? + and why are you thus disquieted? Fear ye that the God we serve will give + you up to yonder heathen dogs? Follow me, and you shall see this day that + there is a captain in Israel!' He uttered a few brief but distinct orders, + in a tone of one who was accustomed to command; and such was the influence + of his appearance, his mien, his language, and his presence of mind, that + he was implicitly obeyed by men who had never seen him until that moment. + We were hastily divided, by his orders, into two bodies; one of which + maintained the defence of the village with more courage than ever, + convinced that the Unknown was sent by God to our rescue. At his command + they assumed the best and most sheltered positions for exchanging their + deadly fire with the Indians; while, under cover of the smoke, the + stranger sallied from the town, at the head of the other division of the + New England men, and, fetching a circuit, attacked the Red Warriors in the + rear. The surprise, as is usual amongst savages, had complete effect; for + they doubted not that they were assailed in their turn, and placed betwixt + two hostile parties by the return of a detachment from the provincial + army. The heathens fled in confusion, abandoning the half-won village, and + leaving behind them such a number of their warriors, that the tribe hath + never recovered its loss. Never shall I forget the figure of our venerable + leader, when our men, and not they only, but the women and children of the + village, rescued from the tomahawk and scalping-knife, stood crowded + around him, yet scarce venturing to approach his person, and more minded, + perhaps, to worship him as a descended angel, than to thank him as a + fellow-mortal. 'Not unto me be the glory,' he said; 'I am but an + implement, frail as yourselves, in the hand of Him who is strong to + deliver. Bring me a cup of water, that I may allay my parched throat, ere + I essay the task of offering thanks where they are most due.' I was + nearest to him as he spoke, and I gave into his hand the water he + requested. At that moment we exchanged glances, and it seemed to me that I + recognised a noble friend whom I had long since deemed in glory; but he + gave me no time to speak, had speech been prudent. Sinking on his knees, + and signing us to obey him, he poured forth a strong and energetic + thanksgiving for the turning back of the battle, which, pronounced with a + voice loud and clear as a war-trumpet, thrilled through the joints and + marrow of the hearers. I have heard many an act of devotion in my life, + had Heaven vouchsafed me grace to profit by them; but such a prayer as + this, uttered amid the dead and the dying, with a rich tone of mingled + triumph and adoration, was beyond them all—it was like the song of + the inspired prophetess who dwelt beneath the palm-tree between Ramah and + Bethel. He was silent; and for a brief space we remained with our faces + bent to the earth—no man daring to lift his head. At length we + looked up, but our deliverer was no longer amongst us; nor was he ever + again seen in the land which he had rescued." + </p> + <p> + Here Bridgenorth, who had told this singular story with an eloquence and + vivacity of detail very contrary to the usual dryness of his conversation, + paused for an instant, and then resumed—"Thou seest, young man, that + men of valour and of discretion are called forth to command in + circumstances of national exigence, though their very existence is unknown + in the land which they are predestined to deliver." + </p> + <p> + "But what thought the people of the mysterious stranger?" said Julian, who + had listened with eagerness, for the story was of a kind interesting to + the youthful and the brave. + </p> + <p> + "Many things," answered Bridgenorth, "and, as usual, little to the + purpose. The prevailing opinion was, notwithstanding his own disclamation, + that the stranger was really a supernatural being; others believed him an + inspired champion, transported in the body from some distant climate, to + show us the way to safety; others, again, concluded that he was a recluse, + who, either from motives of piety, or other cogent reasons, had become a + dweller in the wilderness, and shunned the face of man." + </p> + <p> + "And, if I may presume to ask," said Julian, "to which of these opinions + were you disposed to adhere?" + </p> + <p> + "The last suited best with the transient though close view with which I + had perused the stranger's features," replied Bridgenorth; "for although I + dispute not that it may please Heaven, on high occasions, even to raise + one from the dead in defence of his country, yet I doubted not then, as I + doubt not now, that I looked on the living form of one, who had indeed + powerful reasons to conceal him in the cleft of the rock." + </p> + <p> + "Are these reasons a secret?" said Julian Peveril. + </p> + <p> + "Not properly a secret," replied Bridgenorth; "for I fear not thy + betraying what I might tell thee in private discourse; and besides, wert + thou so base, the prey lies too distant for any hunters to whom thou + couldst point out its traces. But the name of this worthy will sound harsh + in thy ear, on account of one action of his life—being his accession + to a great measure, which made the extreme isles of the earth to tremble. + Have you never heard of Richard Whalley?" + </p> + <p> + "Of the regicide?" exclaimed Peveril, starting. + </p> + <p> + "Call his act what thou wilt," said Bridgenorth; "he was not less the + rescuer of that devoted village, that, with other leading spirits of the + age, he sat in the judgment-seat when Charles Stewart was arraigned at the + bar, and subscribed the sentence that went forth upon him." + </p> + <p> + "I have ever heard," said Julian, in an altered voice, and colouring + deeply, "that you, Master Bridgenorth, with other Presbyterians, were + totally averse to that detestable crime, and were ready to have made + joint-cause with the Cavaliers in preventing so horrible a parricide." + </p> + <p> + "If it were so," said Bridgenorth, "we have been richly rewarded by his + successor." + </p> + <p> + "Rewarded!" exclaimed Julian; "does the distinction of good and evil, and + our obligation to do the one and forbear the other, depend on the reward + which may attach to our actions?" + </p> + <p> + "God forbid," answered Bridgenorth; "yet those who view the havoc which + this house of Stewart have made in the Church and State—the tyranny + which they exercise over men's persons and consciences—may well + doubt whether it be lawful to use weapons in their defence. Yet you hear + me not praise, or even vindicate the death of the King, though so far + deserved, as he was false to his oath as a Prince and Magistrate. I only + tell you what you desired to know, that Richard Whalley, one of the late + King's judges, was he of whom I have just been speaking. I knew his lofty + brow, though time had made it balder and higher; his grey eye retained all + its lustre; and though the grizzled beard covered the lower part of his + face, it prevented me not from recognising him. The scent was hot after + him for his blood; but by the assistance of those friends whom Heaven had + raised up for his preservation, he was concealed carefully, and emerged + only to do the will of Providence in the matter of that battle. Perhaps + his voice may be heard in the field once more, should England need one of + her noblest hearts." + </p> + <p> + "Now, God forbid!" said Julian. + </p> + <p> + "Amen," returned Bridgenorth. "May God avert civil war, and pardon those + whose madness would bring it on us!" + </p> + <p> + There was a long pause, during which Julian, who had scarce lifted his + eyes towards Alice, stole a glance in that direction, and was struck by + the deep cast of melancholy which had stolen over features, to which a + cheerful, if not gay expression, was most natural. So soon as she caught + his eye, she remarked, and, as Julian thought, with significance, that the + shadows were lengthening, and evening coming on. + </p> + <p> + He heard; and although satisfied that she hinted at his departure, he + could not, upon the instant, find resolution to break the spell which + detained him. The language which Bridgenorth held was not only new and + alarming, but so contrary to the maxims in which he was brought up, that, + as a son of Sir Geoffrey Peveril of the Peak, he would, in another case, + have thought himself called upon to dispute its conclusions, even at the + sword's point. But Bridgenorth's opinions were delivered with so much + calmness—seemed so much the result of conviction—that they + excited in Julian rather a spirit of wonder, than of angry controversy. + There was a character of sober decision, and sedate melancholy, in all + that he said, which, even had he not been the father of Alice (and perhaps + Julian was not himself aware how much he was influenced by that + circumstance), would have rendered it difficult to take personal offence. + His language and sentiments were of that quiet, yet decided kind, upon + which it is difficult either to fix controversy, or quarrel, although it + be impossible to acquiesce in the conclusions to which they lead. + </p> + <p> + While Julian remained, as if spell-bound to his chair, scarce more + surprised at the company in which he found himself, than at the opinions + to which he was listening, another circumstance reminded him that the + proper time of his stay at Black Fort had been expended. Little Fairy, the + Manx pony, which, well accustomed to the vicinity of Black Fort, used to + feed near the house while her master made his visits there, began to find + his present stay rather too long. She had been the gift of the Countess to + Julian, whilst a youth, and came of a high-spirited mountain breed, + remarkable alike for hardiness, for longevity, and for a degree of + sagacity approaching to that of the dog. Fairy showed the latter quality, + by the way in which she chose to express her impatience to be moving + homewards. At least such seemed the purpose of the shrill neigh with which + she startled the female inmates of the parlour, who, the moment + afterwards, could not forbear smiling to see the nose of the pony advanced + through the opened casement. + </p> + <p> + "Fairy reminds me," said Julian, looking to Alice, and rising, "that the + term of my stay here is exhausted." + </p> + <p> + "Speak with me yet one moment," said Bridgenorth, withdrawing him into a + Gothic recess of the old-fashioned apartment, and speaking so low that he + could not be overheard by Alice and her governante, who, in the meantime, + caressed, and fed with fragments of bread the intruder Fairy. + </p> + <p> + "You have not, after all," said Bridgenorth, "told me the cause of your + coming hither." He stopped, as if to enjoy his embarrassment, and then + added, "And indeed it were most unnecessary that you should do so. I have + not so far forgotten the days of my youth, or those affections which bind + poor frail humanity but too much to the things of this world. Will you + find no words to ask of me the great boon which you seek, and which, + peradventure, you would not have hesitated to have made your own, without + my knowledge, and against my consent?—Nay, never vindicate thyself, + but mark me farther. The patriarch bought his beloved by fourteen years' + hard service to her father Laban, and they seemed to him but as a few + days. But he that would wed my daughter must serve, in comparison, but a + few days; though in matters of such mighty import, that they shall seem as + the service of many years. Reply not to me now, but go, and peace be with + you." + </p> + <p> + He retired so quickly, after speaking, that Peveril had literally not an + instant to reply. He cast his eyes around the apartment, but Deborah and + her charge had also disappeared. His gaze rested for a moment on the + portrait of Christian, and his imagination suggested that his dark + features were illuminated by a smile of haughty triumph. He stared, and + looked more attentively—it was but the effect of the evening beam, + which touched the picture at the instant. The effect was gone, and there + remained but the fixed, grave, inflexible features of the republican + soldier. + </p> + <p> + Julian left the apartment as one who walks in a dream; he mounted Fairy, + and, agitated by a variety of thoughts, which he was unable to reduce to + order, he returned to Castle Rushin before the night sat down. + </p> + <p> + Here he found all in movement. The Countess, with her son, had, upon some + news received, or resolution formed, during his absence, removed, with a + principal part of their family, to the yet stronger Castle of Holm-Peel, + about eight miles' distance across the island; and which had been suffered + to fall into a much more dilapidated condition than that of Castletown, so + far as it could be considered as a place of residence. But as a fortress, + Holm-Peel was stronger than Castletown; nay, unless assailed regularly, + was almost impregnable; and was always held by a garrison belonging to the + Lords of Man. Here Peveril arrived at nightfall. He was told in the + fishing-village, that the night-bell of the Castle had been rung earlier + than usual, and the watch set with circumstances of unusual and jealous + repetition. + </p> + <p> + Resolving, therefore, not to disturb the garrison by entering at that late + hour, he obtained an indifferent lodging in the town for the night, and + determined to go to the Castle early on the succeeding morning. He was not + sorry thus to gain a few hours of solitude, to think over the agitating + events of the preceding day. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0015" id="link2HCH0015"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XV + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + ——What seem'd its head, + The likeness of a kingly crown had on. + —PARADISE LOST. +</pre> + <p> + Sodor, or Holm-Peel, so is named the castle to which our Julian directed + his course early on the following morning, is one of those extraordinary + monuments of antiquity with which this singular and interesting island + abounds. It occupies the whole of a high rocky peninsula, or rather an + island, for it is surrounded by the sea at high-water, and scarcely + accessible even when the tide is out, although a stone causeway, of great + solidity, erected for the express purpose, connects the island with the + mainland. The whole space is surrounded by double walls of great strength + and thickness; and the access to the interior, at the time which we treat + of, was only by two flights of steep and narrow steps, divided from each + other by a strong tower and guard-house; under the former of which, there + is an entrance-arch. The open space within the walls extends to two acres, + and contains many objects worthy of antiquarian curiosity. There were + besides the castle itself, two cathedral churches, dedicated, the earlier + to St. Patrick, the latter to St. Germain; besides two smaller churches; + all of which had become, even in that day, more or less ruinous. Their + decayed walls, exhibiting the rude and massive architecture of the most + remote period, were composed of a ragged grey-stone, which formed a + singular contrast with the bright red freestone of which the window-cases, + corner-stones, arches, and other ornamental parts of the building, were + composed. + </p> + <p> + Besides these four ruinous churches, the space of ground enclosed by the + massive exterior walls of Holm-Peel exhibited many other vestiges of the + olden time. There was a square mound of earth, facing, with its angles to + the points of the compass, one of those motes, as they were called, on + which, in ancient times, the northern tribes elected or recognised their + chiefs, and held their solemn popular assemblies, or <i>comitia</i>. There + was also one of those singular towers, so common in Ireland as to have + proved the favourite theme of her antiquaries; but of which the real use + and meaning seems yet to be hidden in the mist of ages. This of Holm-Peel + had been converted to the purpose of a watch-tower. There were, besides, + Runic monuments, of which legends could not be deciphered; and later + inscriptions to the memory of champions, of whom the names only were + preserved from oblivion. But tradition and superstitious eld, still most + busy where real history is silent, had filled up the long blank of + accurate information with tales of Sea-kings and Pirates, Hebridean Chiefs + and Norwegian Resolutes, who had formerly warred against, and in defence + of, this famous castle. Superstition, too, had her tales of fairies, + ghosts, and spectres—her legions of saints and demons, of fairies + and of familiar spirits, which in no corner of the British empire are told + and received with more absolute credulity than in the Isle of Man. + </p> + <p> + Amidst all these ruins of an older time arose the Castle itself,—now + ruinous—but in Charles II.'s reign well garrisoned, and, in a + military point of view, kept in complete order. It was a venerable and + very ancient building, containing several apartments of sufficient size + and height to be termed noble. But in the surrender of the island by + Christian, the furniture had been, in a great measure, plundered or + destroyed by the republican soldiers; so that, as we have before hinted, + its present state was ill adapted for the residence of the noble + proprietor. Yet it had been often the abode, not only of the Lords of Man, + but of those state prisoners whom the Kings of Britain sometimes committed + to their charge. + </p> + <p> + In this Castle of Holm-Peel the great king-maker, Richard, Earl of + Warwick, was confined, during one period of his eventful life, to ruminate + at leisure on his farther schemes of ambition. And here, too, Eleanor, the + haughty wife of the good Duke of Gloucester, pined out in seclusion the + last days of her banishment. The sentinels pretended that her discontented + spectre was often visible at night, traversing the battlements of the + external walls, or standing motionless beside a particular solitary turret + of one of the watch-towers with which they are flanked; but dissolving + into air at cock-crow, or when the bell tolled from the yet remaining + tower of St. Germain's church. + </p> + <p> + Such was Holm-Peel, as records inform us, till towards the end of the + seventeenth century. + </p> + <p> + It was in one of the lofty but almost unfurnished apartments of this + ancient Castle that Julian Peveril found his friend the Earl of Derby, who + had that moment sat down to a breakfast composed of various sorts of fish. + "Welcome, most imperial Julian," he said; "welcome to our royal fortress; + in which, as yet, we are not like to be starved with hunger, though + well-nigh dead for cold." + </p> + <p> + Julian answered by inquiring the meaning of this sudden movement. + </p> + <p> + "Upon my word," replied the Earl, "you know nearly as much of it as I do. + My mother has told me nothing about it; supposing I believe, that I shall + at length be tempted to inquire; but she will find herself much mistaken. + I shall give her credit for full wisdom in her proceedings, rather than + put her to the trouble to render a reason, though no woman can render one + better." + </p> + <p> + "Come, come; this is affectation, my good friend," said Julian. "You + should inquire into these matters a little more curiously." + </p> + <p> + "To what purpose?" said the Earl. "To hear old stories about the Tinwald + laws, and the contending rights of the lords and the clergy, and all the + rest of that Celtic barbarism, which, like Burgesse's thorough-paced + doctrine enters at one ear, paces through, and goes out at the other?" + </p> + <p> + "Come, my lord," said Julian, "you are not so indifferent as you would + represent yourself—you are dying of curiosity to know what this + hurry is about; only you think it the courtly humour to appear careless + about your own affairs." + </p> + <p> + "Why, what should it be about," said the young Earl "unless some factious + dispute between our Majesty's minister, Governor Nowel, and our vassals? + or perhaps some dispute betwixt our Majesty and the ecclesiastical + jurisdictions? for all which our Majesty cares as little as any king in + Christendom." + </p> + <p> + "I rather suppose there is intelligence from England," said Julian. "I + heard last night in Peel-town, that Greenhalgh is come over with + unpleasant news." + </p> + <p> + "He brought me nothing that was pleasant, I wot well," said the Earl. "I + expected something from St. Evremond or Hamilton—some new plays by + Dryden or Lee, and some waggery or lampoons from the Rose Coffee-house; + and the fellow has brought me nothing but a parcel of tracts about + Protestants and Papists, and a folio play-book, one of the conceptions, as + she calls them, of that old mad-woman the Duchess of Newcastle." + </p> + <p> + "Hush, my lord, for Heaven's sake," said Peveril; "here comes the + Countess; and you know she takes fire at the least slight to her ancient + friend." + </p> + <p> + "Let her read her ancient friend's works herself, then," said the Earl, + "and think her as wise as she can; but I would not give one of Waller's + songs, or Denham's satires, for a whole cart-load of her Grace's trash.—But + here comes our mother with care on her brow." + </p> + <p> + The Countess of Derby entered the apartment accordingly, holding in her + hand a number of papers. Her dress was a mourning habit, with a deep train + of black velvet, which was borne by a little favourite attendant, a deaf + and dumb girl, whom, in compassion to her misfortune, the Countess had + educated about her person for some years. Upon this unfortunate being, + with the touch of romance which marked many of her proceedings, Lady Derby + had conferred the name of Fenella, after some ancient princess of the + island. The Countess herself was not much changed since we last presented + her to our readers. Age had rendered her step more slow, but not less + majestic; and while it traced some wrinkles on her brow, had failed to + quench the sedate fire of her dark eye. The young men rose to receive her + with the formal reverence which they knew she loved, and were greeted by + her with equal kindness. + </p> + <p> + "Cousin Peveril," she said (for so she always called Julian, in respect of + his mother being a kinswoman of her husband), "you were ill abroad last + night, when we much needed your counsel." + </p> + <p> + Julian answered with a blush which he could not prevent, "That he had + followed his sport among the mountains too far—had returned late—and + finding her ladyship was removed from Castletown, had instantly followed + the family hither; but as the night-bell was rung, and the watch set, he + had deemed it more respectful to lodge for the night in the town." + </p> + <p> + "It is well," said the Countess; "and, to do you justice, Julian, you are + seldom a truant neglecter of appointed hours, though, like the rest of the + youth of this age, you sometimes suffer your sports to consume too much of + time that should be spent otherwise. But for your friend Philip, he is an + avowed contemner of good order, and seems to find pleasure in wasting + time, even when he does not enjoy it." + </p> + <p> + "I have been enjoying my time just now at least," said the Earl, rising + from table, and picking his teeth carelessly. "These fresh mullets are + delicious, and so is the Lachrymæ Christi. I pray you to sit down to + breakfast, Julian, and partake the goods my royal foresight has provided. + Never was King of Man nearer being left to the mercy of the execrable + brandy of his dominions. Old Griffiths would never, in the midst of our + speedy retreat of last night, have had sense enough to secure a few + flasks, had I not given him a hint on that important subject. But presence + of mind amid danger and tumult, is a jewel I have always possessed." + </p> + <p> + "I wish, then, Philip, you would exert it to better purpose," said the + Countess, half smiling, half displeased; for she doated upon her son with + all a mother's fondness, even when she was most angry with him for being + deficient in the peculiar and chivalrous disposition which had + distinguished his father, and which was so analogous to her own romantic + and high-minded character. "Lend me your signet," she added with a sigh; + "for it were, I fear, vain to ask you to read over these despatches from + England, and execute the warrants which I have thought necessary to + prepare in consequence." + </p> + <p> + "My signet you shall command with all my heart, madam," said Earl Philip; + "but spare me the revision of what you are much more capable to decide + upon. I am, you know, a most complete <i>Roi fainéant</i>, and never once + interfered with my <i>Maire de palais</i> in her proceedings." + </p> + <p> + The Countess made signs to her little train-bearer, who immediately went + to seek for wax and a light, with which she presently returned. + </p> + <p> + In the meanwhile the Countess continued, addressing Peveril. "Philip does + himself less than justice. When you were absent, Julian (for if you had + been here I would have given you the credit of prompting your friend), he + had a spirited controversy with the Bishop, for an attempt to enforce + spiritual censures against a poor wretch, by confining her in the vault + under the chapel."[*] + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +[*] Beneath the only one of the four churches in Castle Rushin, which + is or was kept a little in repair, is a prison or dungeon, for + ecclesiastical offenders. "This," says Waldron, "is certainly one + of the most dreadful places that imagination can form; the sea + runs under it through the hollows of the rock with such a + continual roar, that you would think it were every moment breaking + in upon you, and over it are the vaults for burying the dead. The + stairs descending to this place of terrors are not above thirty, + but so steep and narrow, that they are very difficult to go down, + a child of eight or nine years not being able to pass them but + sideways."—WALDRON'S <i>Description of the Isle of Man, in his + Works</i>, p. 105, folio. +</pre> + <p> + "Do not think better of me than I deserve," said the Earl to Peveril; "my + mother has omitted to tell you the culprit was pretty Peggy of Ramsey, and + her crime what in Cupid's courts would have been called a peccadillo." + </p> + <p> + "Do not make yourself worse than you are," replied Peveril, who observed + the Countess's cheek redden,—"you know you would have done as much + for the oldest and poorest cripple in the island. Why, the vault is under + the burial-ground of the chapel, and, for aught I know, under the ocean + itself, such a roaring do the waves make in its vicinity. I think no one + could remain there long, and retain his reason." + </p> + <p> + "It is an infernal hole," answered the Earl, "and I will have it built up + one day—that is full certain.—But hold—hold—for + God's sake, madam—what are you going to do?—Look at the seal + before you put it to the warrant—you will see it is a choice antique + cameo Cupid, riding on a flying fish—I had it for twenty zechins, + from Signor Furabosco at Rome—a most curious matter for an + antiquary, but which will add little faith to a Manx warrant. + </p> + <p> + "My signet—my signet—Oh! you mean that with the three + monstrous legs, which I supposed was devised as the most preposterous + device, to represent our most absurd Majesty of Man.—The signet—I + have not seen it since I gave it to Gibbon, my monkey, to play with.—He + did whine for it most piteously—I hope he has not gemmed the green + breast of ocean with my symbol of sovereignty!" + </p> + <p> + "Now, by Heaven," said the Countess, trembling, and colouring deeply with + anger, "it was your father's signet! the last pledge which he sent, with + his love to me, and his blessing to thee, the night before they murdered + him at Bolton!" + </p> + <p> + "Mother, dearest mother," said the Earl, startled out of his apathy, and + taking her hand, which he kissed tenderly, "I did but jest—the + signet is safe—Peveril knows that it is so.—Go fetch it, + Julian, for Heaven's sake—here are my keys—it is in the + left-hand drawer of my travelling cabinet—Nay, mother, forgive me—it + was but a <i>mauvaise plaisanterie</i>; only an ill-imagined jest, + ungracious, and in bad taste, I allow—but only one of Philip's + follies. Look at me, dearest mother, and forgive me." + </p> + <p> + The Countess turned her eyes towards him, from which the tears were fast + falling. + </p> + <p> + "Philip," she said, "you try me too unkindly, and too severely. If times + are changed, as I have heard you allege—if the dignity of rank, and + the high feelings of honour and duty, are now drowned in giddy jests and + trifling pursuits, let <i>me</i> at least, who live secluded from all + others, die without perceiving the change which has happened, and, above + all, without perceiving it in mine own son. Let me not learn the general + prevalence of this levity, which laughs at every sense of dignity or duty, + through your personal disrespect—Let me not think that when I die——" + </p> + <p> + "Speak nothing of it, mother," said the Earl, interrupting her + affectionately. "It is true, I cannot promise to be all my father and his + fathers were; for we wear silk vests for their steel coats, and feathered + beavers for their crested helmets. But believe me, though to be an + absolute Palmerin of England is not in my nature, no son ever loved a + mother more dearly, or would do more to oblige her. And that you may own + this, I will forthwith not only seal the warrants, to the great + endangerment of my precious fingers, but also read the same from end to + end, as well as the despatches thereunto appertaining." + </p> + <p> + A mother is easily appeased, even when most offended; and it was with an + expanding heart that the Countess saw her son's very handsome features, + while reading these papers, settle into an expression of deep seriousness, + such as they seldom wore. It seemed to her as if the family likeness to + his gallant but unfortunate father increased, when the expression of their + countenances became similar in gravity. The Earl had no sooner perused the + despatches, which he did with great attention, than he rose and said, + "Julian, come with me." + </p> + <p> + The Countess looked surprised. "I was wont to share your father's + counsels, my son," she said; "but do not think that I wish to intrude + myself upon yours. I am too well pleased to see you assume the power and + the duty of thinking for yourself, which is what I have so long urged you + to do. Nevertheless, my experience, who have been so long administrator of + your authority in Man, might not, I think, be superfluous to the matter in + hand." + </p> + <p> + "Hold me excused, dearest mother," said the Earl gravely. "The + interference was none of my seeking; had you taken your own course, + without consulting me, it had been well; but since I have entered on the + affair—and it appears sufficiently important—I must transact + it to the best of my own ability." + </p> + <p> + "Go, then, my son," said the Countess, "and may Heaven enlighten thee with + its counsel, since thou wilt have none of mine.—I trust that you, + Master Peveril, will remind him of what is fit for his own honour; and + that only a coward abandons his rights, and only a fool trusts his + enemies." + </p> + <p> + The Earl answered not, but, taking Peveril by the arm, led him up a + winding stair to his own apartment, and from thence into a projecting + turret, where, amidst the roar of waves and sea-mews' clang, he held with + him the following conversation:— + </p> + <p> + "Peveril, it is well I looked into these warrants. My mother queens it at + such a rate as may cost me not only my crown, which I care little for, but + perhaps my head, which, though others may think little of, I would feel it + an inconvenience to be deprived of." + </p> + <p> + "What on earth is the matter?" said Peveril, with considerable anxiety. + </p> + <p> + "It seems," said the Earl of Derby, "that old England who takes a + frolicsome brain-fever once every two or three years, for the benefit of + her doctors, and the purification of the torpid lethargy brought on by + peace and prosperity, is now gone stark staring mad on the subject of a + real or supposed Popish plot. I read one programme on the subject, by a + fellow called Oates, and thought it the most absurd foolery I ever + perused. But that cunning fellow Shaftesbury, and some others amongst the + great ones, having taken it up, and are driving on at such a rate as makes + harness crack, and horses smoke for it. The King, who has sworn never to + kiss the pillow his father went to sleep on, temporises, and gives way to + the current; the Duke of York, suspected and hated on account of his + religion, is about to be driven to the continent; several principal + Catholic nobles are in the Tower already; and the nation, like a bull at + Tutbury-running, is persecuted with so many inflammatory rumours and + pestilent pamphlets, that she has cocked her tail, flung up her heels, + taken the bit betwixt her teeth and is as furiously unmanageable as in the + year 1642." + </p> + <p> + "All this you must have known already," said Peveril; "I wonder you told + me not of news so important." + </p> + <p> + "It would have taken long to tell," said the Earl; "moreover, I desired to + have you <i>solus</i>; thirdly, I was about to speak when my mother + entered; and, to conclude, it was no business of mine. But these + despatches of my politic mother's private correspondent put a new face on + the whole matter; for it seems some of the informers—a trade which, + having become a thriving one, is now pursued by many—have dared to + glance at the Countess herself as an agent in this same plot—ay, and + have found those that are willing enough to believe their report." + </p> + <p> + "On mine honour," said Peveril, "you both take it with great coolness. I + think the Countess the more composed of the two; for, except her movement + hither, she exhibited no mark of alarm, and, moreover, seemed no way more + anxious to communicate the matter to your lordship than decency rendered + necessary." + </p> + <p> + "My good mother," said the Earl, "loves power, though it has cost her + dear. I wish I could truly say that my neglect of business is entirely + assumed in order to leave it in her hands, but that better motive combines + with natural indolence. But she seems to have feared I should not think + exactly like her in this emergency, and she was right in supposing so." + </p> + <p> + "How comes the emergency upon you?" said Julian; "and what form does the + danger assume?" + </p> + <p> + "Marry, thus it is," said the Earl: "I need not bid you remember the + affair of Colonel Christian. That man, besides his widow, who is possessed + of large property—Dame Christian of Kirk Truagh, whom you have often + heard of, and perhaps seen—left a brother called Edward Christian, + whom you never saw at all. Now this brother—but I dare say you know + all about it." + </p> + <p> + "Not I, on my honour," said Peveril; "you know the Countess seldom or + never alludes to the subject." + </p> + <p> + "Why," replied the Earl, "I believe in her heart she is something ashamed + of that gallant act of royalty and supreme jurisdiction, the consequences + of which maimed my estate so cruelly.—Well, cousin, this same Edward + Christian was one of the dempsters at the time, and, naturally enough, was + unwilling to concur in the sentence which adjudged his <i>aîné</i> to be + shot like a dog. My mother, who was then in high force, and not to be + controlled by any one, would have served the dempster with the same sauce + with which she dressed his brother, had he not been wise enough to fly + from the island. Since that time, the thing has slept on all hands; and + though we knew that Dempster Christian made occasionally secret visits to + his friends in the island, along with two or three other Puritans of the + same stamp, and particularly a prick-eared rogue, called Bridgenorth, + brother-in-law to the deceased, yet my mother, thank Heaven, has hitherto + had the sense to connive at them, though, for some reason or other, she + holds this Bridgenorth in especial disfavour." + </p> + <p> + "And why," said Peveril, forcing himself to speak, in order to conceal the + very unpleasant surprise which he felt, "why does the Countess now depart + from so prudent a line of conduct?" + </p> + <p> + "You must know the case is now different. The rogues are not satisfied + with toleration—they would have supremacy. They have found friends + in the present heat of the popular mind. My mother's name, and especially + that of her confessor, Aldrick the Jesuit, have been mentioned in this + beautiful maze of a plot, which if any such at all exists, she knows as + little of as you or I. However, she is a Catholic, and that is enough; and + I have little doubt, that if the fellows could seize on our scrap of a + kingdom here, and cut all our throats, they would have the thanks of the + present House of Commons, as willingly as old Christian had those of the + Rump, for a similar service." + </p> + <p> + "From whence did you receive all this information?" said Peveril, again + speaking, though by the same effort which a man makes who talks in his + sleep. + </p> + <p> + "Aldrick has seen the Duke of York in secret, and his Royal Highness, who + wept while he confessed his want of power to protect his friends—and + it is no trifle will wring tears from him—told him to send us + information that we should look to our safety, for that Dempster Christian + and Bridgenorth were in the island, with secret and severe orders; that + they had formed a considerable party there, and were likely to be owned + and protected in anything they might undertake against us. The people of + Ramsey and Castletown are unluckily discontented about some new regulation + of the imposts; and to tell you the truth, though I thought yesterday's + sudden remove a whim of my mother's, I am almost satisfied they would have + blockaded us in Rushin Castle, where we could not have held out for lack + of provisions. Here we are better supplied, and, as we are on our guard, + it is likely the intended rising will not take place." + </p> + <p> + "And what is to be done in this emergency?" said Peveril. + </p> + <p> + "That is the very question, my gentle coz," answered the Earl. "My mother + sees but one way of going to work, and that is by royal authority. Here + are the warrants she had prepared, to search for, take, and apprehend the + bodies of Edward Christian and Robert—no, Ralph Bridgenorth, and + bring them to instant trial. No doubt, she would soon have had them in the + Castle court, with a dozen of the old matchlocks levelled against them—that + is her way of solving all sudden difficulties." + </p> + <p> + "But in which, I trust, you do not acquiesce, my lord," answered Peveril, + whose thoughts instantly reverted to Alice, if they could ever be said to + be absent from her. + </p> + <p> + "Truly I acquiesce in no such matter," said the Earl. "William Christian's + death cost me a fair half of my inheritance. I have no fancy to fall under + the displeasure of my royal brother, King Charles, for a new escapade of + the same kind. But how to pacify my mother, I know not. I wish the + insurrection would take place, and then, as we are better provided than + they can be, we might knock the knaves on the head; and yet, since they + began the fray, we should keep the law on our side." + </p> + <p> + "Were it not better," said Peveril, "if by any means these men could be + induced to quit the island?" + </p> + <p> + "Surely," replied the Earl; "but that will be no easy matter—they + are stubborn on principle, and empty threats will not move them. This + stormblast in London is wind in their sails, and they will run their + length, you may depend on it. I have sent orders, however, to clap up the + Manxmen upon whose assistance they depended, and if I can find the two + worthies themselves, here are sloops enough in the harbour—I will + take the freedom to send them on a pretty distant voyage, and I hope + matters will be settled before they return to give an account of it." + </p> + <p> + At this moment a soldier belonging to the garrison approached the two + young men, with many bows and tokens of respect. "How now, friend?" said + the Earl to him. "Leave off thy courtesies, and tell thy business." + </p> + <p> + The man, who was a native islander, answered in Manx, that he had a letter + for his honour, Master Julian Peveril. Julian snatched the billet hastily, + and asked whence it came. + </p> + <p> + "It was delivered to him by a young woman," the soldier replied, "who had + given him a piece of money to deliver it into Master Peveril's own hand." + </p> + <p> + "Thou art a lucky fellow, Julian," said the Earl. "With that grave brow of + thine, and thy character for sobriety and early wisdom, you set the girls + a-wooing, without waiting till they are asked; whilst I, their drudge and + vassal, waste both language and leisure, without getting a kind word or + look, far less a billet-doux." + </p> + <p> + This the young Earl said with a smile of conscious triumph, as in fact he + valued himself not a little upon the interest which he supposed himself to + possess with the fair sex. + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile the letter impressed on Peveril a different train of thoughts + from what his companion apprehended. It was in Alice's hand, and contained + these few words:— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "I fear what I am going to do is wrong; but I must see you. Meet me + at noon at Goddard Crovan's Stone, with as much secrecy as you + may." +</pre> + <p> + The letter was signed only with the initials A. B.; but Julian had no + difficulty in recognising the handwriting, which he had often seen, and + which was remarkably beautiful. He stood suspended, for he saw the + difficulty and impropriety of withdrawing himself from the Countess and + his friend at this moment of impending danger; and yet, to neglect this + invitation was not to be thought of. He paused in the utmost perplexity. + </p> + <p> + "Shall I read your riddle?" said the Earl. "Go where love calls you—I + will make an excuse to my mother—only, most grave anchorite, be + hereafter more indulgent to the failings of others than you have been + hitherto, and blaspheme not the power of the little deity." + </p> + <p> + "Nay, but, Cousin Derby—" said Peveril, and stopped short, for he + really knew not what to say. Secured himself by a virtuous passion from + the contagious influence of the time, he had seen with regret his noble + kinsman mingle more in its irregularities than he approved of, and had + sometimes played the part of a monitor. Circumstances seemed at present to + give the Earl a right of retaliation. He kept his eye fixed on his friend, + as if he waited till he should complete his sentence, and at length + exclaimed, "What! cousin, quite <i>à-la-mort!</i> Oh, most judicious + Julian! Oh, most precise Peveril! have you bestowed so much wisdom on me + that you have none left for yourself? Come, be frank—tell me name + and place—or say but the colour of the eyes of the most emphatic she—or + do but let me have the pleasure to hear thee say, 'I love!'—confess + one touch of human frailty—conjugate the verb <i>amo</i>, and I will + be a gentle schoolmaster, and you shall have, as father Richards used to + say, when we were under his ferule, '<i>licentia exeundi</i>.'" + </p> + <p> + "Enjoy your pleasant humour at my expense, my lord," said Peveril; "I + fairly will confess thus much, that I would fain, if it consisted with my + honour and your safety, have two hours at my own disposal; the more + especially as the manner in which I shall employ them may much concern the + safety of the island." + </p> + <p> + "Very likely, I dare say," answered the Earl, still laughing. "No doubt + you are summoned out by some Lady Politic Wouldbe of the isle, to talk + over some of the breast-laws: but never mind—go, and go speedily, + that you may return as quickly as possible. I expect no immediate + explosion of this grand conspiracy. When the rogues see us on our guard, + they will be cautious how they break out. Only, once more make haste." + </p> + <p> + Peveril thought this last advice was not to be neglected; and, glad to + extricate himself from the raillery of his cousin, walked down towards the + gate of the Castle, meaning to cross over to the village, and there take + horse at the Earl's stables, for the place of rendezvous. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0016" id="link2HCH0016"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVI + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + <i>Acasto.</i>—Can she not speak? + <i>Oswald.</i>—If speech be only in accented sounds, + Framed by the tongue and lips, the maiden's dumb; + But if by quick and apprehensive look, + By motion, sign, and glance, to give each meaning, + Express as clothed in language, be term'd speech, + She hath that wondrous faculty; for her eyes, + Like the bright stars of heaven, can hold discourse, + Though it be mute and soundless. + —OLD PLAY. +</pre> + <p> + At the head of the first flight of steps which descended towards the + difficult and well-defended entrance of the Castle of Holm-Peel, Peveril + was met and stopped by the Countess's train-bearer. This little creature—for + she was of the least and slightest size of womankind—was exquisitely + well formed in all her limbs, which the dress she usually wore (a green + silk tunic, of a peculiar form) set off to the best advantage. Her face + was darker than the usual hue of Europeans; and the profusion of long and + silken hair, which, when she undid the braids in which she commonly wore + it, fell down almost to her ankles, was also rather a foreign attribute. + Her countenance resembled a most beautiful miniature; and there was a + quickness, decision, and fire, in Fenella's look, and especially in her + eyes, which was probably rendered yet more alert and acute, because, + through the imperfection of her other organs, it was only by sight that + she could obtain information of what passed around her. + </p> + <p> + The pretty mute was mistress of many little accomplishments, which the + Countess had caused to be taught to her in compassion for her forlorn + situation, and which she learned with the most surprising quickness. Thus, + for example, she was exquisite in the use of the needle, and so ready and + ingenious a draughtswoman, that, like the ancient Mexicans, she sometimes + made a hasty sketch with her pencil the means of conveying her ideas, + either by direct or emblematical representation. Above all, in the art of + ornamental writing, much studied at that period, Fenella was so great a + proficient, as to rival the fame of Messrs. Snow, Shelley, and other + masters of the pen, whose copybooks, preserved in the libraries of the + curious, still show the artists smiling on the frontispiece in all the + honours of flowing gowns and full-bottomed wigs, to the eternal glory of + caligraphy. + </p> + <p> + The little maiden had, besides these accomplishments, much ready wit and + acuteness of intellect. With Lady Derby, and with the two young gentlemen, + she was a great favourite, and used much freedom in conversing with them, + by means of a system of signs which had been gradually established amongst + them, and which served all ordinary purposes of communication. + </p> + <p> + But, though happy in the indulgence and favour of her mistress, from whom + indeed she was seldom separate, Fenella was by no means a favourite with + the rest of the household. In fact, it seemed that her temper, exasperated + perhaps by a sense of her misfortune, was by no means equal to her + abilities. She was very haughty in her demeanour, even towards the upper + domestics, who in that establishment were of a much higher rank and better + birth than in the families of the nobility in general. These often + complained, not only of her pride and reserve, but of her high and + irascible temper and vindictive disposition. Her passionate propensity had + been indeed idly encouraged by the young men, and particularly by the + Earl, who sometimes amused himself with teasing her, that he might enjoy + the various singular motions and murmurs by which she expressed her + resentment. Towards him, these were of course only petulant and whimsical + indications of pettish anger. But when she was angry with others of + inferior degree—before whom she did not control herself—the + expression of her passion, unable to display itself in language, had + something even frightful, so singular were the tones, contortions, and + gestures, to which she had recourse. The lower domestics, to whom she was + liberal almost beyond her apparent means, observed her with much deference + and respect, but much more from fear than from any real attachment; for + the caprices of her temper displayed themselves even in her gifts; and + those who most frequently shared her bounty, seemed by no means assured of + the benevolence of the motives which dictated her liberality. + </p> + <p> + All these peculiarities led to a conclusion consonant with Manx + superstition. Devout believers in all the legends of fairies so dear to + the Celtic tribes, the Manx people held it for certainty that the elves + were in the habit of carrying off mortal children before baptism, and + leaving in the cradle of the new born babe one of their own brood, which + was almost always imperfect in some one or other of the organs proper to + humanity. Such a being they conceived Fenella to be; and the smallness of + her size, her dark complexion, her long locks of silken hair, the + singularity of her manners and tones, as well as the caprices of her + temper, were to their thinking all attributes of the irritable, fickle, + and dangerous race from which they supposed her to be sprung. And it + seemed, that although no jest appeared to offend her more than when Lord + Derby called her in sport the Elfin Queen, or otherwise alluded to her + supposed connection with "the pigmy folk," yet still her perpetually + affecting to wear the colour of green, proper to the fairies, as well as + some other peculiarities, seemed voluntarily assumed by her, in order to + countenance the superstition, perhaps because it gave her more authority + among the lower orders. + </p> + <p> + Many were the tales circulated respecting the Countess's <i>Elf</i>, as + Fenella was currently called in the island; and the malcontents of the + stricter persuasion were convinced, that no one but a Papist and a + malignant would have kept near her person a creature of such doubtful + origin. They conceived that Fenella's deafness and dumbness were only + towards those of this world, and that she had been heard talking, and + singing, and laughing most elvishly, with the invisibles of her own race. + They alleged, also, that she had a <i>Double</i>, a sort of apparition + resembling her, which slept in the Countess's ante-room, or bore her + train, or wrought in her cabinet, while the real Fenella joined the song + of the mermaids on the moonlight sands, or the dance of the fairies in the + haunted valley of Glenmoy, or on the heights of Snawfell and Barool. The + sentinels, too, would have sworn they had seen the little maiden trip past + them in their solitary night walks, without their having it in their power + to challenge her, any more than if they had been as mute as herself. To + all this mass of absurdities the better informed paid no more attention + than to the usual idle exaggerations of the vulgar, which so frequently + connect that which is unusual with what is supernatural. + </p> + <p> + Such, in form and habits, was the little female, who, holding in her hand + a small old-fashioned ebony rod, which might have passed for a divining + wand, confronted Julian on the top of the flight of steps which led down + the rock from the Castle court. We ought to observe, that as Julian's + manner to the unfortunate girl had been always gentle, and free from those + teasing jests in which his gay friend indulged, with less regard to the + peculiarity of her situation and feelings; so Fenella, on her part, had + usually shown much greater deference to him than to any of the household, + her mistress, the Countess, always excepted. + </p> + <p> + On the present occasion, planting herself in the very midst of the narrow + descent, so as to make it impossible for Peveril to pass by her, she + proceeded to put him to the question by a series of gestures, which we + will endeavour to describe. She commenced by extending her hand slightly, + accompanied with the sharp inquisitive look which served her as a note of + interrogation. This was meant as an inquiry whether he was going to a + distance. Julian, in reply, extended his arm more than half, to intimate + that the distance was considerable. Fenella looked grave, shook her head, + and pointed to the Countess's window, which was visible from the spot + where they stood. Peveril smiled, and nodded, to intimate there was no + danger in quitting her mistress for a short space. The little maiden next + touched an eagle's feather which she wore in her hair, a sign which she + usually employed to designate the Earl, and then looked inquisitively at + Julian once more, as if to say, "Goes he with you?" Peveril shook his + head, and, somewhat wearied by these interrogatories, smiled, and made an + effort to pass. Fenella frowned, struck the end of her ebony rod + perpendicularly on the ground, and again shook her head, as if opposing + his departure. But finding that Julian persevered in his purpose, she + suddenly assumed another and milder mood, held him by the skirt of his + cloak with one hand, and raised the other in an imploring attitude, whilst + every feature of her lively countenance was composed into the like + expression of supplication; and the fire of the large dark eyes, which + seemed in general so keen and piercing as almost to over-animate the + little sphere to which they belonged, seemed quenched, for the moment, in + the large drops which hung on her long eyelashes, but without falling. + </p> + <p> + Julian Peveril was far from being void of sympathy towards the poor girl, + whose motives in opposing his departure appeared to be her affectionate + apprehension for her mistress's safety. He endeavoured to reassure by + smiles, and, at the same time, by such signs as he could devise, to + intimate that there was no danger, and that he would return presently; and + having succeeded in extricating his cloak from her grasp, and in passing + her on the stair, he began to descend the steps as speedily as he could, + in order to avoid farther importunity. + </p> + <p> + But with activity much greater than his, the dumb maiden hastened to + intercept him, and succeeded by throwing herself, at the imminent risk of + life and limb, a second time into the pass which he was descending, so as + to interrupt his purpose. In order to achieve this, she was obliged to let + herself drop a considerable height from the wall of a small flanking + battery, where two patereroes were placed to scour the pass, in case any + enemy could have mounted so high. Julian had scarce time to shudder at her + purpose, as he beheld her about to spring from the parapet, ere, like a + thing of gossamer, she stood light and uninjured on the rocky platform + below. He endeavoured, by the gravity of his look and gesture, to make her + understand how much he blamed her rashness; but the reproof, though + obviously quite intelligible, was entirely thrown away. A hasty wave of + her hand intimated how she contemned the danger and the remonstrance; + while, at the same time, she instantly resumed, with more eagerness than + before, the earnest and impressive gestures by which she endeavoured to + detain him in the fortress. + </p> + <p> + Julian was somewhat staggered by her pertinacity. "Is it possible," he + thought, "that any danger can approach the Countess, of which this poor + maiden has, by the extreme acuteness of her observation, obtained + knowledge which has escaped others?" + </p> + <p> + He signed to Fenella hastily to give him the tablets and the pencil which + she usually carried with her, and wrote on them the question, "Is there + danger near to your mistress, that you thus stop me?" + </p> + <p> + "There is danger around the Countess," was the answer instantly written + down; "but there is much more in your own purpose." + </p> + <p> + "How?—what?—what know you of my purpose?" said Julian, + forgetting, in his surprise, that the party he addressed had neither ear + to comprehend, nor voice to reply to uttered language. She had regained + her book in the meantime, and sketched, with a rapid pencil, on one of the + leaves, a scene which she showed to Julian. To his infinite surprise he + recognised Goddard Crovan's Stone, a remarkable monument, of which she had + given the outline with sufficient accuracy; together with a male and + female figure, which, though only indicated by a few slight touches of the + pencil, bore yet, he thought, some resemblance to himself and Alice + Bridgenorth. + </p> + <p> + When he had gazed on the sketch for an instant with surprise, Fenella took + the book from his hand, laid her finger upon the drawing, and slowly and + sternly shook her head, with a frown which seemed to prohibit the meeting + which was there represented. Julian, however, though disconcerted, was in + no shape disposed to submit to the authority of his monitress. By whatever + means she, who so seldom stirred from the Countess's apartment, had become + acquainted with a secret which he thought entirely his own, he esteemed it + the more necessary to keep the appointed rendezvous, that he might learn + from Alice, if possible, how the secret had transpired. He had also formed + the intention of seeking out Bridgenorth; entertaining an idea that a + person so reasonable and calm as he had shown himself in their late + conference, might be persuaded, when he understood that the Countess was + aware of his intrigues, to put an end to her danger and his own, by + withdrawing from the island. And could he succeed in this point, he should + at once, he thought, render a material benefit to the father of his + beloved Alice—remove the Earl from his state of anxiety—save + the Countess from a second time putting her feudal jurisdiction in + opposition to that of the Crown of England—and secure quiet + possession of the island to her and her family. + </p> + <p> + With this scheme of mediation on his mind, Peveril determined to rid + himself of the opposition of Fenella to his departure, with less ceremony + than he had hitherto observed towards her; and suddenly lifting up the + damsel in his arms before she was aware of his purpose, he turned about, + set her down on the steps above him, and began to descend the pass himself + as speedily as possible. It was then that the dumb maiden gave full course + to the vehemence of her disposition; and clapping her hands repeatedly, + expressed her displeasure in sound, or rather a shriek, so extremely + dissonant, that it resembled more the cry of a wild creature, than + anything which could have been uttered by female organs. Peveril was so + astounded at the scream as it rung through the living rocks, that he could + not help stopping and looking back in alarm, to satisfy himself that she + had not sustained some injury. He saw her, however, perfectly safe, though + her face seemed inflamed and distorted with passion. She stamped at him + with her foot, shook her clenched hand, and turning her back upon him, + without further adieu, ran up the rude steps as lightly as a kid could + have tripped up that rugged ascent, and paused for a moment at the summit + of the first flight. + </p> + <p> + Julian could feel nothing but wonder and compassion for the impotent + passion of a being so unfortunately circumstanced, cut off, as it were, + from the rest of mankind, and incapable of receiving in childhood that + moral discipline which teaches us mastery of our wayward passions, ere yet + they have attained their meridian strength and violence. He waved his hand + to her, in token of amicable farewell; but she only replied by once more + menacing him with her little hand clenched; and then ascending the rocky + staircase with almost preternatural speed, was soon out of sight. + </p> + <p> + Julian, on his part, gave no farther consideration to her conduct or its + motives, but hastening to the village on the mainland, where the stables + of the Castle were situated, he again took his palfrey from the stall, and + was soon mounted and on his way to the appointed place of rendezvous, much + marvelling, as he ambled forward with speed far greater than was promised + by the diminutive size of the animal he was mounted on, what could have + happened to produce so great a change in Alice's conduct towards him, that + in place of enjoining his absence as usual, or recommending his departure + from the island, she should now voluntarily invite him to a meeting. Under + impression of the various doubts which succeeded each other in his + imagination, he sometimes pressed Fairy's sides with his legs; sometimes + laid his holly rod lightly on her neck; sometimes incited her by his + voice, for the mettled animal needed neither whip nor spur, and achieved + the distance betwixt the Castle of Holm-Peel and the stone at Goddard + Crovan, at the rate of twelve miles within the hour. + </p> + <p> + The monumental stone, designed to commemorate some feat of an ancient King + of Man, which had been long forgotten, was erected on the side of a narrow + lonely valley, or rather glen, secluded from observation by the steepness + of its banks, upon a projection of which stood the tall, shapeless, + solitary rock, frowning, like a shrouded giant, over the brawling of the + small rivulet which watered the ravine. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0017" id="link2HCH0017"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVII + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + This a love-meeting? See the maiden mourns, + And the sad suitor bends his looks on earth. + There's more hath pass'd between them than belongs + To Love's sweet sorrows. + —OLD PLAY. +</pre> + <p> + As he approached the monument of Goddard Crovan, Julian cast many an + anxious glance to see whether any object visible beside the huge grey + stone should apprise him, whether he was anticipated, at the appointed + place of rendezvous, by her who had named it. Nor was it long before the + flutter of a mantle, which the breeze slightly waved, and the motion + necessary to replace it upon the wearer's shoulders, made him aware that + Alice had already reached their place of meeting. One instant set the + palfrey at liberty, with slackened girths and loosened reins, to pick its + own way through the dell at will; another placed Julian Peveril by the + side of Alice Bridgenorth. + </p> + <p> + That Alice should extend her hand to her lover, as with the ardour of a + young greyhound he bounded over the obstacles of the rugged path, was as + natural as that Julian, seizing on the hand so kindly stretched out, + should devour it with kisses, and, for a moment or two, without + reprehension; while the other hand, which should have aided in the + liberation of its fellow, served to hide the blushes of the fair owner. + But Alice, young as she was, and attached to Julian by such long habits of + kindly intimacy, still knew well how to subdue the tendency of her own + treacherous affections. + </p> + <p> + "This is not right," she said, extricating her hand from Julian's grasp, + "this is not right, Julian. If I have been too rash in admitting such a + meeting as the present, it is not you that should make me sensible of my + folly." + </p> + <p> + Julian Peveril's mind had been early illuminated with that touch of + romantic fire which deprives passion of selfishness, and confers on it the + high and refined tone of generous and disinterested devotion. He let go + the hand of Alice with as much respect as he could have paid to that of a + princess; and when she seated herself upon a rocky fragment, over which + nature had stretched a cushion of moss and lichen, interspersed with wild + flowers, backed with a bush of copsewood, he took his place beside her, + indeed, but at such distance as to intimate the duty of an attendant, who + was there only to hear and to obey. Alice Bridgenorth became more assured + as she observed the power which she possessed over her lover; and the + self-command which Peveril exhibited, which other damsels in her situation + might have judged inconsistent with intensity of passion, she appreciated + more justly, as a proof of his respectful and disinterested sincerity. She + recovered, in addressing him, the tone of confidence which rather belonged + to the scenes of their early acquaintance, than to those which had passed + betwixt them since Peveril had disclosed his affection, and thereby had + brought restraint upon their intercourse. + </p> +<div class="fig" style="width:65%;"> + <img src="images/0093m.jpg" alt="0093m " width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <h5> + <a href="images/0093.jpg"><i>Original</i></a> + </h5> + <p> + "Julian," she said, "your visit of yesterday—your most ill-timed + visit, has distressed me much. It has misled my father—it has + endangered you. At all risks, I resolved that you should know this, and + blame me not if I have taken a bold and imprudent step in desiring this + solitary interview, since you are aware how little poor Deborah is to be + trusted." + </p> + <p> + "Can you fear misconstruction from me, Alice?" replied Peveril warmly; + "from me, whom you have thus highly favoured—thus deeply obliged?" + </p> + <p> + "Cease your protestations, Julian," answered the maiden; "they do but make + me the more sensible that I have acted over boldly. But I did for the + best.—I could not see you whom I have known so long—you, who + say you regard me with partiality——" + </p> + <p> + "<i>Say</i> that I regard you with partiality!" interrupted Peveril in his + turn. "Ah, Alice, with a cold and doubtful phrase you have used to express + the most devoted, the most sincere affection!" + </p> + <p> + "Well, then," said Alice sadly, "we will not quarrel about words; but do + not again interrupt me.—I could not, I say, see you, who, I believe, + regard me with sincere though vain and fruitless attachment, rush + blindfold into a snare, deceived and seduced by those very feelings + towards me." + </p> + <p> + "I understand you not, Alice," said Peveril; "nor can I see any danger to + which I am at present exposed. The sentiments which your father has + expressed towards me, are of a nature irreconcilable with hostile + purposes. If he is not offended with the bold wishes I may have formed,—and + his whole behaviour shows the contrary,—I know not a man on earth + from whom I have less cause to apprehend any danger or ill-will." + </p> + <p> + "My father," said Alice, "means well by his country, and well by you; yet + I sometimes fear he may rather injure than serve his good cause; and still + more do I dread, that in attempting to engage you as an auxiliary, he may + forget those ties which ought to bind you, and I am sure which will bind + you, to a different line of conduct from his own." + </p> + <p> + "You lead me into still deeper darkness, Alice," answered Peveril. "That + your father's especial line of politics differs widely from mine, I know + well; but how many instances have occurred, even during the bloody scenes + of civil warfare, of good and worthy men laying the prejudice of party + affections aside, and regarding each other with respect, and even with + friendly attachment, without being false to principle on either side?" + </p> + <p> + "It may be so," said Alice; "but such is not the league which my father + desires to form with you, and that to which he hopes your misplaced + partiality towards his daughter may afford a motive for your forming with + him." + </p> + <p> + "And what is it," said Peveril, "which I would refuse, with such a + prospect before me?" + </p> + <p> + "Treachery and dishonour!" replied Alice; "whatever would render you + unworthy of the poor boon at which you aim—ay, were it more + worthless than I confess it to be." + </p> + <p> + "Would your father," said Peveril, as he unwillingly received the + impression which Alice designed to convey,—"would he, whose views of + duty are so strict and severe—would he wish to involve me in aught, + to which such harsh epithets as treachery and dishonour can be applied + with the lightest shadow of truth?" + </p> + <p> + "Do not mistake me, Julian," replied the maiden; "my father is incapable + of requesting aught of you that is not to his thinking just and + honourable; nay, he conceives that he only claims from you a debt, which + is due as a creature to the Creator, and as a man to your fellow-men." + </p> + <p> + "So guarded, where can be the danger of our intercourse?" replied Julian. + "If he be resolved to require, and I determined to accede to, nothing save + what flows from conviction, what have I to fear, Alice? And how is my + intercourse with your father dangerous? Believe not so; his speech has + already made impression on me in some particulars, and he listened with + candour and patience to the objections which I made occasionally. You do + Master Bridgenorth less than justice in confounding him with the + unreasonable bigots in policy and religion, who can listen to no argument + but what favours their own prepossessions." + </p> + <p> + "Julian," replied Alice; "it is you who misjudge my father's powers, and + his purpose with respect to you, and who overrate your own powers of + resistance. I am but a girl, but I have been taught by circumstances to + think for myself, and to consider the character of those around me. My + father's views in ecclesiastical and civil policy are as dear to him as + the life which he cherishes only to advance them. They have been, with + little alteration, his companions through life. They brought him at one + period into prosperity, and when they suited not the times, he suffered + for having held them. They have become not only a part, but the very + dearest part, of his existence. If he shows them not to you at first, in + the flexible strength which they have acquired over his mind, do not + believe that they are the less powerful. He who desires to make converts, + must begin by degrees. But that he should sacrifice to an inexperienced + young man, whose ruling motive he will term a childish passion, any part + of those treasured principles which he has maintained through good repute + and bad repute—Oh, do not dream of such an impossibility! If you + meet at all, you must be the wax, he the seal—you must receive, he + must bestow, an absolute impression." + </p> + <p> + "That," said Peveril, "were unreasonable. I will frankly avow to you, + Alice, that I am not a sworn bigot to the opinions entertained by my + father, much as I respect his person. I could wish that our Cavaliers, or + whatsoever they are pleased to call themselves, would have some more + charity towards those who differ from them in Church and State. But to + hope that I would surrender the principles in which I have lived, were to + suppose me capable of deserting my benefactress, and breaking the hearts + of my parents." + </p> + <p> + "Even so I judged of you," answered Alice; "and therefore I asked this + interview, to conjure that you will break off all intercourse with our + family—return to your parents—or, what will be much safer, + visit the continent once more, and abide till God send better days to + England, for these are black with many a storm." + </p> + <p> + "And can you bid me go, Alice?" said the young man, taking her unresisting + hand; "can you bid me go, and yet own an interest in my fate?—Can + you bid me, for fear of dangers, which, as a man, as a gentleman, and a + loyal one, I am bound to show my face to, meanly abandon my parents, my + friends, my country—suffer the existence of evils which I might aid + to prevent—forego the prospect of doing such little good as might be + in my power—fall from an active and honourable station, into the + condition of a fugitive and time-server—Can you bid me do all this, + Alice? Can you bid me do all this, and, in the same breath, bid farewell + for ever to you and happiness?—It is impossible—I cannot + surrender at once my love and my honour." + </p> + <p> + "There is no remedy," said Alice, but she could not suppress a sigh while + she said so—"there is no remedy—none whatever. What we might + have been to each other, placed in more favourable circumstances, it + avails not to think of now; and, circumstanced as we are, with open war + about to break out betwixt our parents and friends, we can be but + well-wishers—cold and distant well-wishers, who must part on this + spot, and at this hour, never meet again." + </p> + <p> + "No, by Heaven!" said Peveril, animated at the same time by his own + feelings, and by the sight of the emotions which his companion in vain + endeavoured to suppress,—"No, by Heaven!" he exclaimed, "we part not—Alice, + we part not. If I am to leave my native land, you shall be my companion in + my exile. What have you to lose?—Whom have you to abandon?—Your + father?—The good old cause, as it is termed, is dearer to him than a + thousand daughters; and setting him aside, what tie is there between you + and this barren isle—between my Alice and any spot of the British + dominions, where her Julian does not sit by her?" + </p> + <p> + "O Julian," answered the maiden, "why make my duty more painful by + visionary projects, which you ought not to name, or I to listen to? Your + parents—my father—it cannot be!" + </p> + <p> + "Fear not for my parents, Alice," replied Julian, and pressing close to + his companion's side, he ventured to throw his arm around her; "they love + me, and they will soon learn to love, in Alice, the only being on earth + who could have rendered their son happy. And for your own father, when + State and Church intrigues allow him to bestow a thought upon you, will he + not think that your happiness, your security, is better cared for when you + are my wife, than were you to continue under the mercenary charge of + yonder foolish woman? What could his pride desire better for you, than the + establishment which will one day be mine? Come then, Alice, and since you + condemn me to banishment—since you deny me a share in those stirring + achievements which are about to agitate England—come! do you—for + you only can—do you reconcile me to exile and inaction, and give + happiness to one, who, for your sake, is willing to resign honour." + </p> + <p> + "It cannot—it cannot be," said Alice, faltering as she uttered her + negative. "And yet," she said, "how many in my place—left alone and + unprotected, as I am—But I must not—I must not—for your + sake, Julian, I must not." + </p> + <p> + "Say not for my sake you must not, Alice," said Peveril eagerly; "this is + adding insult to cruelty. If you will do aught for my sake, you will say + yes; or you will suffer this dear head to drop on my shoulder—the + slightest sign—the moving of an eyelid, shall signify consent. All + shall be prepared within an hour; within another the priest shall unite + us; and within a third, we leave the isle behind us, and seek our fortunes + on the continent." But while he spoke, in joyful anticipation of the + consent which he implored, Alice found means to collect together her + resolution, which, staggered by the eagerness of her lover, the impulse of + her own affections, and the singularity of her situation,—seeming, + in her case, to justify what would have been most blamable in another,—had + more than half abandoned her. + </p> + <p> + The result of a moment's deliberation was fatal to Julian's proposal. She + extricated herself from the arm which had pressed her to his side—arose, + and repelling his attempts to approach or detain her, said, with a + simplicity not unmingled with dignity, "Julian, I always knew I risked + much in inviting you to this meeting; but I did not guess that I could + have been so cruel to both to you and to myself, as to suffer you to + discover what you have to-day seen too plainly—that I love you + better than you love me. But since you do know it, I will show you that + Alice's love is disinterested—She will not bring an ignoble name + into your ancient house. If hereafter, in your line, there should arise + some who may think the claims of the hierarchy too exorbitant, the powers + of the crown too extensive, men shall not say these ideas were derived + from Alice Bridgenorth, their whig granddame." + </p> + <p> + "Can you speak thus, Alice?" said her lover. "Can you use such + expressions? and are you not sensible that they show plainly it is your + own pride, not regard for me, that makes you resist the happiness of + both?" + </p> + <p> + "Not so, Julian; not so," answered Alice, with tears in her eyes; "it is + the command of duty to us both—of duty, which we cannot transgress, + without risking our happiness here and hereafter. Think what I, the cause + of all, should feel, when your father frowns, your mother weeps, your + noble friends stand aloof, and you, even you yourself, shall have made the + painful discovery, that you have incurred the contempt and resentment of + all to satisfy a boyish passion; and that the poor beauty, once sufficient + to mislead you, is gradually declining under the influence of grief and + vexation. This I will not risk. I see distinctly it is best we should here + break off and part; and I thank God, who gives me light enough to + perceive, and strength enough to withstand, your folly as well as my own. + Farewell, then, Julian; but first take the solemn advice which I called + you hither to impart to you:—Shun my father—you cannot walk in + his paths, and be true to gratitude and to honour. What he doth from pure + and honourable motives, you cannot aid him in, except upon the suggestion + of a silly and interested passion, at variance with all the engagements + you have formed at coming into life." + </p> + <p> + "Once more, Alice," answered Julian, "I understand you not. If a course of + action is good, it needs no vindication from the actor's motives—if + bad, it can derive none." + </p> + <p> + "You cannot blind me with your sophistry, Julian," replied Alice + Bridgenorth, "any more than you can overpower me with your passion. Had + the patriarch destined his son to death upon any less ground than faith + and humble obedience to a divine commandment, he had meditated a murder + and not a sacrifice. In our late bloody and lamentable wars, how many drew + swords on either side, from the purest and most honourable motives? How + many from the culpable suggestions of ambition, self-seeking, and love of + plunder? Yet while they marched in the same ranks, and spurred their + horses at the same trumpet-sound, the memory of the former is dear to us + as patriots or loyalists—that of those who acted on mean or unworthy + promptings, is either execrated or forgotten. Once more, I warn you, avoid + my father—leave this island, which will be soon agitated by strange + incidents—while you stay, be on your guard—distrust everything—be + jealous of every one, even of those to whom it may seem almost impossible, + from circumstances, to attach a shadow of suspicion—trust not the + very stones of the most secret apartment in Holm-Peel, for that which hath + wings shall carry the matter." + </p> + <p> + Here Alice broke off suddenly, and with a faint shriek; for, stepping from + behind the stunted copse which had concealed him, her father stood + unexpectedly before them. + </p> + <p> + The reader cannot have forgotten that this was the second time in which + the stolen interviews of the lovers had been interrupted by the unexpected + apparition of Major Bridgenorth. On this second occasion his countenance + exhibited anger mixed with solemnity, like that of the spirit to a + ghost-seer, whom he upbraids with having neglected a charge imposed at + their first meeting. Even his anger, however, produced no more violent + emotion than a cold sternness of manner in his speech and action. "I thank + you, Alice," he said to his daughter, "for the pains you have taken to + traverse my designs towards this young man, and towards yourself. I thank + you for the hints you have thrown out before my appearance, the suddenness + of which alone has prevented you from carrying your confidence to a pitch + which would have placed my life and that of others at the discretion of a + boy, who, when the cause of God and his country is laid before him, has + not leisure to think of them, so much is he occupied with such a baby-face + as thine." Alice, pale as death, continued motionless, with her eyes fixed + on the ground, without attempting the slightest reply to the ironical + reproaches of her father. + </p> + <p> + "And you," continued Major Bridgenorth, turning from his daughter to her + lover,—"you sir, have well repaid the liberal confidence which I + placed in you with so little reserve. You I have to thank also for some + lessons, which may teach me to rest satisfied with the churl's blood which + nature has poured into my veins, and with the rude nurture which my father + allotted to me." + </p> + <p> + "I understand you not, sir," replied Julian Peveril, who, feeling the + necessity of saying something, could not, at the moment, find anything + more fitting to say. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, sir, I thank you," said Major Bridgenorth, in the same cold + sarcastic tone, "for having shown me that breach of hospitality, + infringement of good faith, and such like peccadilloes, are not utterly + foreign to the mind and conduct of the heir of a knightly house of twenty + descents. It is a great lesson to me, sir: for hitherto I had thought with + the vulgar, that gentle manners went with gentle blood. But perhaps + courtesy is too chivalrous a quality to be wasted in intercourse with a + round-headed fanatic like myself." + </p> + <p> + "Major Bridgenorth," said Julian, "whatever has happened in this interview + which may have displeased you, has been the result of feelings suddenly + and strongly animated by the crisis of the moment—nothing was + premeditated." + </p> + <p> + "Not even your meeting, I suppose?" replied Bridgenorth, in the same cold + tone. "You, sir, wandered hither from Holm-Peel—my daughter strolled + forth from the Black Fort; and chance, doubtless, assigned you a meeting + by the stone of Goddard Crovan?—Young man, disgrace yourself by no + more apologies—they are worse than useless.—And you, maiden, + who, in your fear of losing your lover, could verge on betraying what + might have cost a father his life—begone to your home. I will talk + with you at more leisure, and teach you practically those duties which you + seem to have forgotten." + </p> + <p> + "On my honour, sir," said Julian, "your daughter is guiltless of all that + can offend you; she resisted every offer which the headstrong violence of + my passion urged me to press upon her." + </p> + <p> + "And, in brief," said Bridgenorth, "I am not to believe that you met in + this remote place of rendezvous by Alice's special appointment?" + </p> + <p> + Peveril knew not what to reply, and Bridgenorth again signed with his hand + to his daughter to withdraw. + </p> + <p> + "I obey you, father," said Alice, who had by this time recovered from the + extremity of her surprise,—"I obey you; but Heaven is my witness + that you do me more than injustice in suspecting me capable of betraying + your secrets, even had it been necessary to save my own life or that of + Julian. That you are walking in a dangerous path I well know; but you do + it with your eyes open, and are actuated by motives of which you can + estimate the worth and value. My sole wish was, that this young man should + not enter blindfold on the same perils; and I had a right to warn him, + since the feelings by which he is hoodwinked had a direct reference to + me." + </p> + <p> + "'Tis well, minion," said Bridgenorth, "you have spoken your say. Retire, + and let me complete the conference which you have so considerately + commenced." + </p> + <p> + "I go, sir," said Alice.—"Julian, to you my last words are, and I + would speak them with my last breath—Farewell, and caution!" + </p> + <p> + She turned from them, disappeared among the underwood, and was seen no + more. + </p> + <p> + "A true specimen of womankind," said her father, looking after her, "who + would give the cause of nations up, rather than endanger a hair of her + lover's head.—You, Master Peveril, doubtless, hold her opinion, that + the best love is a safe love!" + </p> + <p> + "Were danger alone in my way," said Peveril, much surprised at the + softened tone in which Bridgenorth made this observation, "there are few + things which I would not face to—to—deserve your good + opinion." + </p> + <p> + "Or rather to win my daughter's hand," said Bridgenorth. "Well, young man, + one thing has pleased me in your conduct, though of much I have my reasons + to complain—one thing <i>has</i> pleased me. You have surmounted + that bounding wall of aristocratical pride, in which your father, and, I + suppose, his fathers, remained imprisoned, as in the precincts of a feudal + fortress—you have leaped over this barrier, and shown yourself not + unwilling to ally yourself with a family whom your father spurns as + low-born and ignoble." + </p> + <p> + However favourable this speech sounded towards success in his suit, it so + broadly stated the consequences of that success so far as his parents were + concerned, that Julian felt it in the last degree difficult to reply. At + length, perceiving that Major Bridgenorth seemed resolved quietly to await + his answer, he mustered up courage to say, "The feelings which I entertain + towards your daughter, Master Bridgenorth, are of a nature to supersede + many other considerations, to which in any other case, I should feel it my + duty to give the most reverential attention. I will not disguise from you, + that my father's prejudices against such a match would be very strong; but + I devoutly believe they would disappear when he came to know the merit of + Alice Bridgenorth, and to be sensible that she only could make his son + happy." + </p> + <p> + "In the meanwhile, you are desirous to complete the union which you + propose without the knowledge of your parents, and take the chance of + their being hereafter reconciled to it? So I understand, from the proposal + which you made but lately to my daughter." + </p> + <p> + The turns of human nature, and of human passion, are so irregular and + uncertain, that although Julian had but a few minutes before urged to + Alice a private marriage, and an elopement to the continent, as a measure + upon which the whole happiness of his life depended, the proposal seemed + not to him half so delightful when stated by the calm, cold, dictatorial + accents of her father. It sounded no longer like the dictates of ardent + passion, throwing all other considerations aside, but as a distinct + surrender of the dignity of his house to one who seemed to consider their + relative situation as the triumph of Bridgenorth over Peveril. He was mute + for a moment, in the vain attempt to shape his answer so as at once to + intimate acquiescence in what Bridgenorth stated, and a vindication of his + own regard for his parents, and for the honour of his house. + </p> + <p> + This delay gave rise to suspicion, and Bridgenorth's eye gleamed, and his + lip quivered while he gave vent to it. "Hark ye, young man—deal + openly with me in this matter, if you would not have me think you the + execrable villain who would have seduced an unhappy girl, under promises + which he never designed to fulfil. Let me but suspect this, and you shall + see, on the spot, how far your pride and your pedigree will preserve you + against the just vengeance of a father." + </p> + <p> + "You do me wrong," said Peveril—"you do me infinite wrong, Major + Bridgenorth, I am incapable of the infamy which you allude to. The + proposal I made to your daughter was as sincere as ever was offered by man + to woman. I only hesitated, because you think it necessary to examine me + so very closely; and to possess yourself of all my purposes and + sentiments, in their fullest extent, without explaining to me the tendency + of your own." + </p> + <p> + "Your proposal, then, shapes itself thus," said Bridgenorth:—"You + are willing to lead my only child into exile from her native country, to + give her a claim to kindness and protection from your family, which you + know will be disregarded, on condition I consent to bestow her hand on + you, with a fortune sufficient to have matched your ancestors, when they + had most reason to boast of their wealth. This, young man, seems no equal + bargain. And yet," he continued, after a momentary pause, "so little do I + value the goods of this world, that it might not be utterly beyond thy + power to reconcile me to the match which you have proposed to me, however + unequal it may appear." + </p> + <p> + "Show me but the means which can propitiate your favour, Major + Bridgenorth," said Peveril,—"for I will not doubt that they will be + consistent with my honour and duty—and you shall soon see how + eagerly I will obey your directions, or submit to your conditions." + </p> + <p> + "They are summed in few words," answered Bridgenorth. "Be an honest man, + and the friend of your country." + </p> + <p> + "No one has ever doubted," replied Peveril, "that I am both." + </p> + <p> + "Pardon me," replied the Major; "no one has, as yet, seen you show + yourself either. Interrupt me not—I question not your will to be + both; but you have hitherto neither had the light nor the opportunity + necessary for the display of your principles, or the service of your + country. You have lived when an apathy of mind, succeeding to the + agitations of the Civil War, had made men indifferent to state affairs, + and more willing to cultivate their own ease, than to stand in the gap + when the Lord was pleading with Israel. But we are Englishmen; and with us + such unnatural lethargy cannot continue long. Already, many of those who + most desired the return of Charles Stewart, regard him as a King whom + Heaven, importuned by our entreaties, gave to us in His anger. His + unlimited licence—and example so readily followed by the young and + the gay around him—has disgusted the minds of all sober and thinking + men. I had not now held conference with you in this intimate fashion, were + I not aware that you, Master Julian, were free from such stain of the + times. Heaven, that rendered the King's course of license fruitful, had + denied issue to his bed of wedlock; and in the gloomy and stern character + of his bigoted successor, we already see what sort of monarch shall + succeed to the crown of England. This is a critical period, at which it + necessarily becomes the duty of all men to step forward, each in his + degree, and aid in rescuing the country which gave us birth." Peveril + remembered the warning which he had received from Alice, and bent his eyes + on the ground, without returning any reply. "How is it, young man," + continued Bridgenorth, after a pause—"so young as thou art, and + bound by no ties of kindred profligacy with the enemies of your country, + you can be already hardened to the claims she may form on you at this + crisis?" + </p> + <p> + "It were easy to answer you generally, Major Bridgenorth," replied Peveril—"It + were easy to say that my country cannot make a claim on me which I will + not promptly answer at the risk of lands and life. But in dealing thus + generally, we should but deceive each other. What is the nature of this + call? By whom is it to be sounded? And what are to be the results? for I + think you have already seen enough of the evils of civil war, to be wary + of again awakening its terrors in a peaceful and happy country." + </p> + <p> + "They that are drenched with poisonous narcotics," said the Major, "must + be awakened by their physicians, though it were with the sound of the + trumpet. Better that men should die bravely, with their arms in their + hands, like free-born Englishmen, than that they should slide into the + bloodless but dishonoured grave which slavery opens for its vassals—But + it is not of war that I was about to speak," he added, assuming a milder + tone. "The evils of which England now complains, are such as can be + remedied by the wholesome administration of her own laws, even in the + state in which they are still suffered to exist. Have these laws not a + right to the support of every individual who lives under them? Have they + not a right to yours?" + </p> + <p> + As he seemed to pause for an answer, Peveril replied, "I have to learn, + Major Bridgenorth, how the laws of England have become so far weakened as + to require such support as mine. When that is made plain to me, no man + will more willingly discharge the duty of a faithful liegeman to the law + as well as the King. But the laws of England are under the guardianship of + upright and learned judges, and of a gracious monarch." + </p> + <p> + "And of a House of Commons," interrupted Bridgenorth, "no longer doting + upon restored monarchy, but awakened, as with a peal of thunder, to the + perilous state of our religion, and of our freedom. I appeal to your own + conscience, Julian Peveril, whether this awakening hath not been in time, + since you yourself know, and none better than you, the secret but rapid + strides which Rome has made to erect her Dagon of idolatry within our + Protestant land." + </p> + <p> + Here Julian seeing, or thinking he saw, the drift of Bridgenorth's + suspicions, hastened to exculpate himself from the thought of favouring + the Roman Catholic religion. "It is true," he said, "I have been educated + in a family where that faith is professed by one honoured individual, and + that I have since travelled in Popish countries; but even for these very + reasons I have seen Popery too closely to be friendly to its tenets. The + bigotry of the laymen—the persevering arts of the priesthood—the + perpetual intrigue for the extension of the forms without the spirit of + religion—the usurpation of that Church over the consciences of men—and + her impious pretensions to infallibility, are as inconsistent to my mind + as they can seem to yours, with common-sense, rational liberty, freedom of + conscience, and pure religion." + </p> + <p> + "Spoken like the son of your excellent mother," said Bridgenorth, grasping + his hand; "for whose sake I have consented to endure so much from your + house unrequited, even when the means of requital were in my own hand." + </p> + <p> + "It was indeed from the instructions of that excellent parent," said + Peveril, "that I was enabled, in my early youth, to resist and repel the + insidious attacks made upon my religious faith by the Catholic priests + into whose company I was necessarily thrown. Like her, I trust to live and + die in the faith of the reformed Church of England." + </p> + <p> + "The Church of England!" said Bridgenorth, dropping his young friend's + hand, but presently resuming it—"Alas! that Church, as now + constituted, usurps scarcely less than Rome herself upon men's consciences + and liberties; yet, out of the weakness of this half-reformed Church, may + God be pleased to work out deliverance to England, and praise to Himself. + I must not forget, that one whose services have been in the cause + incalculable, wears the garb of an English priest, and hath had Episcopal + ordination. It is not for us to challenge the instrument, so that our + escape is achieved from the net of the fowler. Enough, that I find thee + not as yet enlightened with the purer doctrine, but prepared to profit by + it when the spark shall reach thee. Enough, in especial, that I find thee + willing to uplift thy testimony to cry aloud and spare not, against the + errors and arts of the Church of Rome. But remember, what thou hast now + said, thou wilt soon be called upon to justify, in a manner the most + solemn—the most awful." + </p> + <p> + "What I have said," replied Julian Peveril, "being the unbiassed + sentiments of my heart, shall, upon no proper occasion, want the support + of my open avowal; and I think it strange you should doubt me so far." + </p> + <p> + "I doubt thee not, my young friend," said Bridgenorth; "and I trust to see + that name rank high amongst those by whom the prey shall be rent from the + mighty. At present, thy prejudices occupy thy mind like the strong keeper + of the house mentioned in Scripture. But there shall come a stronger than + he, and make forcible entry, displaying on the battlements that sign of + faith in which alone there is found salvation.—Watch, hope, and + pray, that the hour may come." + </p> + <p> + There was a pause in the conversation, which was first broken by Peveril. + "You have spoken to me in riddles, Major Bridgenorth; and I have asked you + for no explanation. Listen to a caution on my part, given with the most + sincere good-will. Take a hint from me, and believe it, though it is + darkly expressed. You are here—at least are believed to be here—on + an errand dangerous to the Lord of the island. That danger will be + retorted on yourself, if you make Man long your place of residence. Be + warned, and depart in time." + </p> + <p> + "And leave my daughter to the guardianship of Julian Peveril! Runs not + your counsel so, young man?" answered Bridgenorth. "Trust my safety, + Julian, to my own prudence. I have been accustomed to guide myself through + worse dangers than now environ me. But I thank you for your caution, which + I am willing to believe was at least partly disinterested." + </p> + <p> + "We do not, then, part in anger?" said Peveril. + </p> + <p> + "Not in anger, my son," said Bridgenorth, "but in love and strong + affection. For my daughter, thou must forbear every thought of seeing her, + save through me. I accept not thy suit, neither do I reject it; only this + I intimate to you, that he who would be my son, must first show himself + the true and loving child of his oppressed and deluded country. Farewell; + do not answer me now, thou art yet in the gall of bitterness, and it may + be that strife (which I desire not) should fall between us. Thou shalt + hear of me sooner than thou thinkest for." + </p> + <p> + He shook Peveril heartily by the hand, and again bid him farewell, leaving + him under the confused and mingled impression of pleasure, doubt, and + wonder. Not a little surprised to find himself so far in the good graces + of Alice's father, that his suit was even favoured with a sort of negative + encouragement, he could not help suspecting, as well from the language of + the daughter as of the father, that Bridgenorth was desirous, as the price + of his favour, that he should adopt some line of conduct inconsistent with + the principles in which he had been educated. + </p> + <p> + "You need not fear, Alice," he said in his heart; "not even your hand + would I purchase by aught which resembled unworthy or truckling compliance + with tenets which my heart disowns; and well I know, were I mean enough to + do so, even the authority of thy father were insufficient to compel thee + to the ratification of so mean a bargain. But let me hope better things. + Bridgenorth, though strong-minded and sagacious, is haunted by the fears + of Popery, which are the bugbears of his sect. My residence in the family + of the Countess of Derby is more than enough to inspire him with + suspicions of my faith, from which, thank Heaven, I can vindicate myself + with truth and a good conscience." + </p> + <p> + So thinking, he again adjusted the girths of his palfrey, replaced the bit + which he had slipped out of its mouth, that it might feed at liberty, and + mounting, pursued his way back to the Castle of Holm-Peel, where he could + not help fearing that something extraordinary might have happened in his + absence. + </p> + <p> + But the old pile soon rose before him, serene, and sternly still, amid the + sleeping ocean. The banner, which indicated that the Lord of Man held + residence within its ruinous precincts, hung motionless by the + ensign-staff. The sentinels walked to and fro on their posts, and hummed + or whistled their Manx airs. Leaving his faithful companion, Fairy, in the + village as before, Julian entered the Castle, and found all within in the + same state of quietness and good order which external appearances had + announced. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0018" id="link2HCH0018"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVIII + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Now rede me, rede me, brother dear, + Throughout Merry England, + Where will I find a messenger, + Betwixt us two to send. + —BALLAD OF KING ESTMERE. +</pre> + <p> + Julian's first encounter, after re-entering the Castle, was with its young + Lord, who received him with his usual kindness and lightness of humour. + </p> + <p> + "Thrice welcome, Sir Knight of Dames," said the Earl; "here you rove + gallantly, and at free will, through our dominions, fulfilling of + appointments, and achieving amorous adventures; while we are condemned to + sit in our royal halls, as dull and as immovable as if our Majesty was + carved on the stern of some Manx smuggling dogger, and christened the King + Arthur of Ramsey." + </p> + <p> + "Nay, in that case you would take the sea," said Julian, "and so enjoy + travel and adventure enough." + </p> + <p> + "Oh, but suppose me wind-bound, or detained in harbour by a revenue pink, + or ashore, if you like it, and lying high and dry upon the sand. Imagine + the royal image in the dullest of all predicaments, and you have not + equalled mine." + </p> + <p> + "I am happy to hear, at least, that you have had no disagreeable + employment," said Julian; "the morning's alarm has blown over, I suppose?" + </p> + <p> + "In faith it has, Julian; and our close inquiries cannot find any cause + for the apprehended insurrection. That Bridgenorth is in the island seems + certain; but private affairs of consequence are alleged as the cause of + his visit; and I am not desirous to have him arrested unless I could prove + some malpractices against him and his companions. In fact, it would seem + we had taken the alarm too soon. My mother speaks of consulting you on the + subject, Julian; and I will not anticipate her solemn communication. It + will be partly apologetical, I suppose; for we begin to think our retreat + rather unroyal, and that, like the wicked, we have fled when no man + pursued. This idea afflicts my mother, who, as a Queen-Dowager, a + Queen-Regent, a heroine, and a woman in general, would be extremely + mortified to think that her precipitate retreat hither had exposed her to + the ridicule of the islanders; and she is disconcerted and out of humour + accordingly. In the meanwhile, my sole amusement has been the grimaces and + fantastic gestures of that ape Fenella, who is more out of humour, and + more absurd, in consequence, than you ever saw her. Morris says, it is + because you pushed her downstairs, Julian—how is that?" + </p> + <p> + "Nay, Morris has misreported me," answered Julian; "I did but lift her <i>up</i> + stairs to be rid of her importunity; for she chose, in her way, to contest + my going abroad in such an obstinate manner, that I had no other mode of + getting rid of her." + </p> + <p> + "She must have supposed your departure, at a moment so critical, was + dangerous to the state of our garrison," answered the Earl; "it shows how + dearly she esteems my mother's safety, how highly she rates your prowess. + But, thank Heaven, there sounds the dinner-bell. I would the philosophers, + who find a sin and waste of time in good cheer, could devise us any + pastime half so agreeable." + </p> + <p> + The meal which the young Earl had thus longed for, as a means of consuming + a portion of the time which hung heavy on his hands, was soon over; as + soon, at least, as the habitual and stately formality of the Countess's + household permitted. She herself, accompanied by her gentlewomen and + attendants, retired early after the tables were drawn; and the young + gentlemen were left to their own company. Wine had, for the moment, no + charms for either; for the Earl was out of spirits from ennui, and + impatience of his monotonous and solitary course of life; and the events + of the day had given Peveril too much matter for reflection, to permit his + starting amusing or interesting topics of conversation. After having + passed the flask in silence betwixt them once or twice, they withdrew each + to a separate embrasure of the windows of the dining apartment, which, + such was the extreme thickness of the wall, were deep enough to afford a + solitary recess, separated, as it were, from the chamber itself. In one of + these sat the Earl of Derby, busied in looking over some of the new + publications which had been forwarded from London; and at intervals + confessing how little power or interest these had for him, by yawning + fearfully as he looked out on the solitary expanse of waters, which, save + from the flight of a flock of sea-gulls, or a solitary cormorant, offered + so little of variety to engage his attention. + </p> + <p> + Peveril, on his part, held a pamphlet also in his hand, without giving, or + affecting to give it, even his occasional attention. His whole soul turned + upon the interview which he had had that day with Alice Bridgenorth, and + with her father; while he in vain endeavoured to form any hypothesis which + could explain to him why the daughter, to whom he had no reason to think + himself indifferent, should have been so suddenly desirous of their + eternal separation, while her father, whose opposition he so much dreaded, + seemed to be at least tolerant of his addresses. He could only suppose, in + explanation, that Major Bridgenorth had some plan in prospect, which it + was in his own power to farther or to impede; while, from the demeanour, + and indeed the language, of Alice, he had but too much reason to apprehend + that her father's favour could only be conciliated by something, on his + own part, approaching to dereliction of principle. But by no conjecture + which he could form, could he make the least guess concerning the nature + of that compliance, of which Bridgenorth seemed desirous. He could not + imagine, notwithstanding Alice had spoken of treachery, that her father + would dare to propose to him uniting in any plan by which the safety of + the Countess, or the security of her little kingdom of Man, was to be + endangered. This carried such indelible disgrace in the front, that he + could not suppose the scheme proposed to him by any who was not prepared + to defend with his sword, upon the spot, so flagrant an insult offered to + his honour. And such a proceeding was totally inconsistent with the + conduct of Major Bridgenorth in every other respect, besides his being too + calm and cold-blooded to permit of his putting a mortal affront upon the + son of his old neighbour, to whose mother he confessed so much of + obligation. + </p> + <p> + While Peveril in vain endeavoured to extract something like a probable + theory out of the hints thrown out by the father and by the daughter—not + without the additional and lover-like labour of endeavouring to reconcile + his passion to his honour and conscience—he felt something gently + pull him by the cloak. He unclasped his arms, which, in meditation, had + been folded on his bosom; and withdrawing his eyes from the vacant + prospect of sea-coast and sea which they perused, without much + consciousness upon what they rested, he beheld beside him the little dumb + maiden, the elfin Fenella. She was seated on a low cushion or stool, with + which she had nestled close to Peveril's side, and had remained there for + a short space of time, expecting, no doubt, he would become conscious of + her presence; until, tired of remaining unnoticed, she at length solicited + his attention in the manner which we have described. Startled out of his + reverie by this intimation of her presence, he looked down, and could not, + without interest, behold this singular and helpless being. + </p> +<div class="fig" style="width:65%;"> + <img src="images/0231m.jpg" alt="0231m " width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <h5> + <a href="images/0231.jpg"><i>Original</i></a> + </h5> + <p> + Her hair was unloosened, and streamed over her shoulders in such length, + that much of it lay upon the ground, and in such quantity, that it formed + a dark veil, or shadow, not only around her face, but over her whole + slender and minute form. From the profusion of her tresses looked forth + her small and dark, but well-formed features, together with the large and + brilliant black eyes; and her whole countenance was composed into the + imploring look of one who is doubtful of the reception she is about to + meet with from a valued friend, while she confesses a fault, pleads an + apology, or solicits a reconciliation. In short, the whole face was so + much alive with expression, that Julian, though her aspect was so familiar + to him, could hardly persuade himself but that her countenance was + entirely new. The wild, fantastic, elvish vivacity of the features, seemed + totally vanished, and had given place to a sorrowful, tender, and pathetic + cast of countenance, aided by the expression of the large dark eyes, + which, as they were turned up towards Julian, glistened with moisture, + that, nevertheless, did not overflow the eyelids. + </p> + <p> + Conceiving that her unwonted manner arose from a recollection of the + dispute which had taken place betwixt them in the morning, Peveril was + anxious to restore the little maiden's gaiety, by making her sensible that + there dwelt on his mind no unpleasing recollection of their quarrel. He + smiled kindly, and shook her hand in one of his; while, with the + familiarity of one who had known her from childhood, he stroked down her + long dark tresses with the other. She stooped her head, as if ashamed, + and, at the same time, gratified with his caresses—and he was thus + induced to continue them, until, under the veil of her rich and abundant + locks, he suddenly felt his other hand, which she still held in hers, + slightly touched with her lips, and, at the same time, moistened with a + tear. + </p> + <p> + At once, and for the first time in his life, the danger of being + misinterpreted in his familiarity with a creature to whom the usual modes + of explanation were a blank, occurred to Julian's mind; and, hastily + withdrawing his hand, and changing his posture, he asked her, by a sign + which custom had rendered familiar, whether she brought any message to him + from the Countess. She started up, and arranged herself in her seat with + the rapidity of lightning; and, at the same moment, with one turn of her + hand, braided her length of locks into a natural head-dress of the most + beautiful kind. There was, indeed, when she looked up, a blush still + visible on her dark features; but their melancholy and languid expression + had given place to that of wild and restless vivacity, which was most + common to them. Her eyes gleamed with more than their wonted fire, and her + glances were more piercingly wild and unsettled than usual. To Julian's + inquiry, she answered, by laying her hand on her heart—a motion by + which she always indicated the Countess—and rising, and taking the + direction of her apartment, she made a sign to Julian to follow her. + </p> + <p> + The distance was not great betwixt the dining apartment and that to which + Peveril now followed his mute guide; yet, in going thither, he had time + enough to suffer cruelly from the sudden suspicion, that this unhappy girl + had misinterpreted the uniform kindness with which he had treated her, and + hence come to regard him with feelings more tender than those which belong + to friendship. The misery which such a passion was likely to occasion to a + creature in her helpless situation, and actuated by such lively feelings, + was great enough to make him refuse credit to the suspicion which pressed + itself upon his mind; while, at the same time, he formed the internal + resolution so to conduct himself towards Fenella, as to check such + misplaced sentiments, if indeed she unhappily entertained them towards + him. + </p> + <p> + When they reached the Countess's apartment, they found her with writing + implements, and many sealed letters before her. She received Julian with + her usual kindness; and having caused him to be seated, beckoned to the + mute to resume her needle. In an instant Fenella was seated at an + embroidering-frame; where, but for the movement of her dexterous fingers, + she might have seemed a statue, so little did she move from her work + either head or eye. As her infirmity rendered her presence no bar to the + most confidential conversation, the Countess proceeded to address Peveril + as if they had been literally alone together. + </p> + <p> + "Julian," she said, "I am not now about to complain to you of the + sentiments and conduct of Derby. He is your friend—he is my son. He + has kindness of heart and vivacity of talent; and yet——" + </p> + <p> + "Dearest lady," said Peveril, "why will you distress yourself with fixing + your eye on deficiencies which arise rather from a change of times and + manners, than any degeneracy of my noble friend? Let him be once engaged + in his duty, whether in peace or war, and let me pay the penalty if he + acquits not himself becoming his high station." + </p> + <p> + "Ay," replied the Countess; "but when will the call of duty prove superior + to that of the most idle or trivial indulgence which can serve to drive + over the lazy hour? His father was of another mould; and how often was it + my lot to entreat that he would spare, from the rigid discharge of those + duties which his high station imposed, the relaxation absolutely necessary + to recruit his health and his spirits!" + </p> + <p> + "Still, my dearest lady," said Peveril, "you must allow, that the duties + to which the times summoned your late honoured lord, were of a more + stirring, as well as a more peremptory cast, than those which await your + son." + </p> + <p> + "I know not that," said the Countess. "The wheel appears to be again + revolving; and the present period is not unlikely to bring back such + scenes as my young years witnessed.—Well, be it so; they will not + find Charlotte de la Tremouille broken in spirit, though depressed by + years. It was even on this subject I would speak with you, my young + friend. Since our first early acquaintance—when I saw your gallant + behaviour as I issued forth to your childish eye, like an apparition, from + my place of concealment in your father's castle—it has pleased me to + think you a true son of Stanley and Peveril. I trust your nurture in this + family has been ever suited to the esteem in which I hold you.—Nay, + I desire no thanks.—I have to require of you, in return, a piece of + service, not perhaps entirely safe to yourself, but which, as times are + circumstanced, no person is so well able to render to my house." + </p> + <p> + "You have been ever my good and noble lady," answered Peveril, "as well as + my kind, and I may say maternal, protectress. You have a right to command + the blood of Stanley in the veins of every one—You have a thousand + rights to command it in mine."[*] + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +[*] The reader cannot have forgotten that the Earl of Derby was head + of the great house of Stanley. +</pre> + <p> + "My advices from England," said the Countess, "resemble more the dreams of + a sick man, than the regular information which I might have expected from + such correspondents as mine;—their expressions are like those of men + who walk in their sleep, and speak by snatches of what passes in their + dreams. It is said, a plot, real or fictitious, has been detected among + the Catholics, which has spread far wider and more uncontrollable terror + than that of the fifth of November. Its outlines seem utterly incredible, + and are only supported by the evidence of wretches, the meanest and most + worthless in the creation; yet it is received by the credulous people of + England with the most undoubting belief." + </p> + <p> + "This is a singular delusion, to rise without some real ground," answered + Julian. + </p> + <p> + "I am no bigot, cousin, though a Catholic," replied the Countess. "I have + long feared that the well-meant zeal of our priests for increasing + converts, would draw on them the suspicion of the English nation. These + efforts have been renewed with double energy since the Duke of York + conformed to the Catholic faith; and the same event has doubled the hate + and jealousy of the Protestants. So far, I fear, there may be just cause + of suspicion, that the Duke is a better Catholic than an Englishman, and + that bigotry has involved him, as avarice, or the needy greed of a + prodigal, has engaged his brother, in relations with France, whereof + England may have too much reason to complain. But the gross, thick, and + palpable fabrications of conspiracy and murder, blood and fire—the + imaginary armies—the intended massacres—form a collection of + falsehoods, that one would have thought indigestible, even by the coarse + appetite of the vulgar for the marvellous and horrible; but which are, + nevertheless, received as truth by both Houses of Parliament, and + questioned by no one who is desirous to escape the odious appellation of + friend to the bloody Papists, and favourer of their infernal schemes of + cruelty." + </p> + <p> + "But what say those who are most likely to be affected by these wild + reports?" said Julian. "What say the English Catholics themselves?—a + numerous and wealthy body, comprising so many noble names?" + </p> + <p> + "Their hearts are dead within them," said the Countess. "They are like + sheep penned up in the shambles, that the butcher may take his choice + among them. In the obscure and brief communications which I have had by a + secure hand, they do but anticipate their own utter ruin, and ours—so + general is the depression, so universal the despair." + </p> + <p> + "But the King," said Peveril,—"the King and the Protestant Royalists—what + say they to this growing tempest?" + </p> + <p> + "Charles," replied the Countess, "with his usual selfish prudence, + truckles to the storm; and will let cord and axe do their work on the most + innocent men in his dominions, rather than lose an hour of pleasure in + attempting their rescue. And, for the Royalists, either they have caught + the general delirium which has seized on Protestants in general, or they + stand aloof and neutral, afraid to show any interest in the unhappy + Catholics, lest they be judged altogether such as themselves, and abettors + of the fearful conspiracy in which they are alleged to be engaged. In + fact, I cannot blame them. It is hard to expect that mere compassion for a + persecuted sect—or, what is yet more rare, an abstract love of + justice—should be powerful enough to engage men to expose themselves + to the awakened fury of a whole people; for, in the present state of + general agitation, whoever disbelieves the least tittle of the enormous + improbabilities which have been accumulated by these wretched reformers, + is instantly hunted down, as one who would smother the discovery of the + Plot. It is indeed an awful tempest; and, remote as we lie from its + sphere, we must expect soon to feel its effects." + </p> + <p> + "Lord Derby already told me something of this," said Julian; "and that + there were agents in this island whose object was to excite insurrection." + </p> + <p> + "Yes," answered the Countess, and her eye flashed fire as she spoke; "and + had my advice been listened to, they had been apprehended in the very + fact; and so dealt with, as to be a warning to all others how they sought + this independent principality on such an errand. But my son, who is + generally so culpably negligent of his own affairs, was pleased to assume + the management of them upon this crisis." + </p> + <p> + "I am happy to learn, madam," answered Peveril, "that the measures of + precaution which my kinsman has adopted, have had the complete effect of + disconcerting the conspiracy." + </p> + <p> + "For the present, Julian; but they should have been such as would have + made the boldest tremble to think of such infringement of our rights in + future. But Derby's present plan is fraught with greater danger; and yet + there is something in it of gallantry, which has my sympathy." + </p> + <p> + "What is it, madam?" inquired Julian anxiously; "and in what can I aid it, + or avert its dangers?" + </p> + <p> + "He purposes," said the Countess, "instantly to set forth for London. He + is, he says, not merely the feudal chief of a small island, but one of the + noble Peers of England, who must not remain in the security of an obscure + and distant castle, when his name, or that of his mother, is slandered + before his Prince and people. He will take his place, he says, in the + House of Lords, and publicly demand justice for the insult thrown on his + house, by perjured and interested witnesses." + </p> + <p> + "It is a generous resolution, and worthy of my friend," said Julian + Peveril. "I will go with him and share his fate, be it what it may." + </p> + <p> + "Alas, foolish boy!" answered the Countess, "as well may you ask a hungry + lion to feel compassion, as a prejudiced and furious people to do justice. + They are like the madman at the height of frenzy, who murders without + compunction his best and dearest friend; and only wonders and wails over + his own cruelty, when he is recovered from his delirium." + </p> + <p> + "Pardon me, dearest lady," said Julian, "this cannot be. The noble and + generous people of England cannot be thus strangely misled. Whatever + prepossessions may be current among the more vulgar, the House of + Legislature cannot be deeply infected by them—they will remember + their own dignity." + </p> + <p> + "Alas! cousin," answered the Countess, "when did Englishmen, even of the + highest degree, remember anything, when hurried away by the violence of + party feeling? Even those who have too much sense to believe in the + incredible fictions which gull the multitude, will beware how they expose + them, if their own political party can gain a momentary advantage by their + being accredited. It is amongst such, too, that your kinsman has found + friends and associates. Neglecting the old friends of his house, as too + grave and formal companions for the humour of the times, his intercourse + has been with the versatile Shaftesbury—the mercurial Buckingham—men + who would not hesitate to sacrifice to the popular Moloch of the day, + whatsoever or whomsoever, whose ruin could propitiate the deity.—Forgive + a mother's tears, kinsman; but I see the scaffold at Bolton again erected. + If Derby goes to London while these bloodhounds are in full cry, obnoxious + as he is, and I have made him by my religious faith, and my conduct in + this island, he dies his father's death. And yet upon what other course to + resolve!——" + </p> + <p> + "Let me go to London, madam," said Peveril, much moved by the distress of + his patroness; "your ladyship was wont to rely something on my judgment. I + will act for the best—will communicate with those whom you point out + to me, and only with them; and I trust soon to send you information that + this delusion, however strong it may now be, is in the course of passing + away; at the worst, I can apprise you of the danger, should it menace the + Earl or yourself; and may be able also to point out the means by which it + may be eluded." + </p> + <p> + The Countess listened with a countenance in which the anxiety of maternal + affection, which prompted her to embrace Peveril's generous offer, + struggled with her native disinterested and generous disposition. "Think + what you ask of me, Julian," she replied with a sigh. "Would you have me + expose the life of my friend's son to those perils to which I refuse my + own?—No, never!" + </p> + <p> + "Nay, but madam," replied Julian, "I do not run the same risk—my + person is not known in London—my situation, though not obscure in my + own country, is too little known to be noticed in that huge assemblage of + all that is noble and wealthy. No whisper, I presume, however indirect, + has connected my name with the alleged conspiracy. I am a Protestant, + above all; and can be accused of no intercourse, direct or indirect, with + the Church of Rome. My connections also lie amongst those, who, if they do + not, or cannot, befriend me, cannot, at least, be dangerous to me. In a + word, I run no danger where the Earl might incur great peril." + </p> + <p> + "Alas!" said the Countess of Derby, "all this generous reasoning may be + true; but it could only be listened to by a widowed mother. Selfish as I + am, I cannot but reflect that my kinswoman has, in all events, the support + of an affectionate husband—such is the interested reasoning to which + we are not ashamed to subject our better feelings." + </p> + <p> + "Do not call it so, madam," answered Peveril; "think of me as the younger + brother of my kinsman. You have ever done by me the duties of a mother; + and have a right to my filial service, were it at a risk ten times greater + than a journey to London, to inquire into the temper of the times. I will + instantly go and announce my departure to the Earl." + </p> + <p> + "Stay, Julian," said the Countess; "if you must make this journey in our + behalf,—and, alas! I have not generosity enough to refuse your noble + proffer,—you must go alone, and without communication with Derby. I + know him well; his lightness of mind is free from selfish baseness; and + for the world, would he not suffer you to leave Man without his company. + And if he went with you, your noble and disinterested kindness would be of + no avail—you would but share his ruin, as the swimmer who attempts + to save a drowning man is involved in his fate, if he permit the sufferer + to grapple with him." + </p> + <p> + "It shall be as you please, madam," said Peveril. "I am ready to depart + upon half-an-hour's notice." + </p> + <p> + "This night, then," said the Countess, after a moment's pause—"this + night I will arrange the most secret means of carrying your generous + project into effect; for I would not excite that prejudice against you, + which will instantly arise, were it known you had so lately left this + island, and its Popish lady. You will do well, perhaps, to use a feigned + name in London." + </p> + <p> + "Pardon me, madam," said Julian; "I will do nothing that can draw on me + unnecessary attention; but to bear a feigned name, or affect any disguise + beyond living with extreme privacy, would, I think, be unwise as well as + unworthy; and what, if challenged, I might find some difficulty in + assigning a reason for, consistent with perfect fairness of intentions." + </p> + <p> + "I believe you are right," answered the Countess, after a moment's + consideration; and then added, "You propose, doubtless, to pass through + Derbyshire, and visit Martindale Castle?" + </p> + <p> + "I should wish it, madam, certainly," replied Peveril, "did time permit, + and circumstances render it advisable." + </p> + <p> + "Of that," said the Countess, "you must yourself judge. Despatch is, + doubtless, desirable; on the other hand, arriving from your own + family-seat, you will be less an object of doubt and suspicion, than if + you posted up from hence, without even visiting your parents. You must be + guided in this,—in all,—by your own prudence. Go, my dearest + son—for to me you should be dear as a son—go, and prepare for + your journey. I will get ready some despatches, and a supply of money—Nay, + do not object. Am I not your mother; and are you not discharging a son's + duty? Dispute not my right of defraying your expenses. Nor is this all; + for, as I must trust your zeal and prudence to act in our behalf when + occasion shall demand, I will furnish you with effectual recommendations + to our friends and kindred, entreating and enjoining them to render + whatever aid you may require, either for your own protection, or the + advancement of what you may propose in our favour." + </p> + <p> + Peveril made no farther opposition to an arrangement, which in truth the + moderate state of his own finances rendered almost indispensable, unless + with his father's assistance; and the Countess put into his hand bills of + exchange to the amount of two hundred pounds, upon a merchant in the city. + She then dismissed Julian for the space of an hour; after which, she said, + she must again require his presence. + </p> + <p> + The preparations for his journey were not of a nature to divert the + thoughts which speedily pressed on him. He found that half-an-hour's + conversation had once more completely changed his immediate prospects and + plans for the future. He had offered to the Countess of Derby a service, + which her uniform kindness had well deserved at his hand; but, by her + accepting it, he was upon the point of being separated from Alice + Bridgenorth, at a time when she was become dearer to him than ever, by her + avowal of mutual passion. Her image rose before him, such as he had that + day pressed her to his bosom—her voice was in his ear, and seemed to + ask whether he could desert her in the crisis which everything seemed to + announce as impending. But Julian Peveril, his youth considered, was + strict in judging his duty, and severely resolved in executing it. He + trusted not his imagination to pursue the vision which presented itself; + but resolutely seizing his pen, wrote to Alice the following letter, + explaining his situation, as far as justice to the Countess permitted him + to do so:— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "I leave you, dearest Alice," thus ran the letter.—"I leave you; + and though, in doing so, I but obey the command you have laid on + me, yet I can claim little merit for my compliance, since, without + additional and most forcible reasons in aid of your orders, I fear + I should have been unable to comply with them. But family affairs + of importance compel me to absent myself from this island, for, I + fear, more than one week. My thoughts, hopes, and wishes will be + on the moment that shall restore me to the Black Fort, and its + lovely valley. Let me hope that yours will sometimes rest on the + lonely exile, whom nothing could render such, but the command of + honour and duty. Do not fear that I mean to involve you in a + private correspondence, and let not your father fear it. I could + not love you so much, but for the openness and candour of your + nature; and I would not that you concealed from Major Bridgenorth + one syllable of what I now avow. Respecting other matters, he + himself cannot desire the welfare of our common country with more + zeal than I do. Differences may occur concerning the mode in which + that is to be obtained; but, in the principle, I am convinced + there can be only one mind between us; nor can I refuse to listen + to his experience and wisdom, even where they may ultimately fail + to convince me. Farewell—Alice, farewell! Much might be added to + that melancholy word, but nothing that could express the + bitterness with which it is written. Yet I could transcribe it + again and again, rather than conclude the last communication which + I can have with you for some time. My sole comfort is, that my + stay will scarce be so long as to permit you to forget one who + never can forget you." +</pre> + <p> + He held the paper in his hand for a minute after he had folded, but before + he had sealed it, while he hurriedly debated in his own mind whether he + had not expressed himself towards Major Bridgenorth in so conciliating a + manner as might excite hopes of proselytism, which his conscience told him + he could not realise with honour. Yet, on the other hand, he had no right, + from what Bridgenorth had said, to conclude that their principles were + diametrically irreconcilable; for though the son of a high Cavalier, and + educated in the family of the Countess of Derby, he was himself, upon + principle, an enemy of prerogative, and a friend to the liberty of the + subject. And with such considerations, he silenced all internal objections + on the point of honour; although his conscience secretly whispered that + these conciliatory expressions towards the father were chiefly dictated by + the fear, that during his absence Major Bridgenorth might be tempted to + change the residence of his daughter, and perhaps to convey her altogether + out of his reach. + </p> + <p> + Having sealed his letter, Julian called his servant, and directed him to + carry it under cover of one addressed to Mrs. Debbitch, to a house in the + town of Rushin, where packets and messages intended for the family at + Black Fort were usually deposited; and for that purpose to take horse + immediately. He thus got rid of an attendant, who might have been in some + degree a spy on his motions. He then exchanged the dress he usually wore + for one more suited to travelling; and, having put a change or two of + linen into a small cloak-bag, selected as arms a strong double-edged sword + and an excellent pair of pistols, which last he carefully loaded with + double bullets. Thus appointed, and with twenty pieces in his purse, and + the bills we have mentioned secured in a private pocket-book, he was in + readiness to depart as soon as he should receive the Countess's commands. + </p> + <p> + The buoyant spirit of youth and hope, which had, for a moment, been + chilled by the painful and dubious circumstances in which he was placed, + as well as the deprivation which he was about to undergo, now revived in + full vigour. Fancy, turning from more painful anticipations, suggested to + him that he was now entering upon life, at a crisis when resolution and + talents were almost certain to make the fortune of their possessor. How + could he make a more honourable entry on the bustling scene, than sent by, + and acting in behalf of, one of the noblest houses in England; and should + he perform what his charge might render incumbent with the resolution and + the prudence necessary to secure success, how many occurrences might take + place to render his mediation necessary to Bridgenorth; and thus enable + him, on the most equal and honourable terms, to establish a claim to his + gratitude and to his daughter's hand. + </p> + <p> + Whilst he was dwelling on such pleasing, though imaginary prospects, he + could not help exclaiming aloud—"Yes, Alice, I will win thee nobly!" + The words had scarce escaped his lips, when he heard at the door of his + apartment, which the servant had left ajar, a sound like a deep sigh, + which was instantly succeeded by a gentle tap—"Come in," replied + Julian, somewhat ashamed of his exclamation, and not a little afraid that + it had been caught up by some eavesdropper—"Come in," he again + repeated; but his command was not obeyed; on the contrary, the knock was + repeated somewhat louder. He opened the door, and Fenella stood before + him. + </p> + <p> + With eyes that seemed red with recent tears, and with a look of the + deepest dejection, the little mute, first touching her bosom, and + beckoning with her finger, made to him the usual sign that the Countess + desired to see him—then turned, as if to usher him to her apartment. + As he followed her through the long gloomy vaulted passages which afforded + communication betwixt the various apartments of the castle, he could not + but observe that her usual light trip was exchanged for a tardy and + mournful step, which she accompanied with low inarticulate moaning (which + she was probably the less able to suppress, because she could not judge + how far it was audible), and also with wringing of the hands, and other + marks of extreme affliction. + </p> + <p> + At this moment a thought came across Peveril's mind, which, in spite of + his better reason, made him shudder involuntarily. As a Peaksman, and a + long resident in the Isle of Man, he was well acquainted with many a + superstitious legend, and particularly with a belief, which attached to + the powerful family of the Stanleys, for their peculiar demon, a Banshie, + or female spirit, who was wont to shriek "foreboding evil times;" and who + was generally seen weeping and bemoaning herself before the death of any + person of distinction belonging to the family. For an instant, Julian + could scarcely divest himself of the belief that the wailing, jibbering + form, which glided before him, with a lamp in her hand, was a genius of + his mother's race, come to announce to him as an analogous reflection, + that if the suspicion which had crossed his mind concerning Fenella was a + just one, her ill-fated attachment to him, like that of the prophetic + spirit to his family, could bode nothing but disaster, and lamentation, + and woe. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0019" id="link2HCH0019"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIX + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Now, hoist the anchor, mates—and let the sails + Give their broad bosom to the buxom wind, + Like lass that woos a lover. + —ANONYMOUS. +</pre> + <p> + The presence of the Countess dispelled the superstitious feeling, which, + for an instant, had encroached on Julian's imagination, and compelled him + to give attention to the matters of ordinary life. "Here are your + credentials," she said, giving him a small packet, carefully packed up in + a sealskin cover; "you had better not open them till you come to London. + You must not be surprised to find that there are one or two addressed to + men of my own persuasion. These, for all our sakes, you will observe + caution in delivering." + </p> + <p> + "I go your messenger, madam," said Peveril; "and whatever you desire me to + charge myself with, of that I undertake the care. Yet allow me to doubt + whether an intercourse with Catholics will at this moment forward the + purposes of my mission." + </p> + <p> + "You have caught the general suspicion of this wicked sect already," said + the Countess, smiling, "and are the fitter to go amongst Englishmen in + their present mood. But, my cautious friend, these letters are so + addressed, and the persons to whom they are addressed so disguised, that + you will run no danger in conversing with them. Without their aid, indeed, + you will not be able to obtain the accurate information you go in search + of. None can tell so exactly how the wind sets, as the pilot whose vessel + is exposed to the storm. Besides, though you Protestants deny our + priesthood the harmlessness of the dove, you are ready enough to allow us + a full share of the wisdom of the serpent; in plain terms, their means of + information are extensive, and they are not deficient in the power of + applying it. I therefore wish you to have the benefit of their + intelligence and advice, if possible." + </p> + <p> + "Whatever you impose upon me as a part of my duty, madam, rely on its + being discharged punctually," answered Peveril. "And, now, as there is + little use in deferring the execution of a purpose when once fixed, let me + know your ladyship's wishes concerning my departure." + </p> + <p> + "It must be sudden and secret," said the Countess; "the island is full of + spies; and I would not wish that any of them should have notice that an + envoy of mine was about to leave Man for London. Can you be ready to go on + board to-morrow?" + </p> + <p> + "To-night—this instant if you will," said Julian,—"my little + preparations are complete." + </p> + <p> + "Be ready, then, in your chamber, at two hours after midnight. I will send + one to summon you, for our secret must be communicated, for the present, + to as few as possible. A foreign sloop is engaged to carry you over; then + make the best of your way to London, by Martindale Castle, or otherwise, + as you find most advisable. When it is necessary to announce your absence, + I will say you are gone to see your parents. But stay—your journey + will be on horseback, of course, from Whitehaven. You have bills of + exchange, it is true; but are you provided with ready money to furnish + yourself with a good horse?" + </p> + <p> + "I am sufficiently rich, madam," answered Julian; "and good nags are + plenty in Cumberland. There are those among them who know how to come by + them good and cheap." + </p> + <p> + "Trust not to that," said the Countess. "Here is what will purchase for + you the best horse on the Borders.—Can you be simple enough to + refuse it?" she added, as she pressed on him a heavy purse, which he saw + himself obliged to accept. + </p> + <p> + "A good horse, Julian," continued the Countess, "and a good sword, next to + a good heart and head, are the accomplishments of a cavalier." + </p> + <p> + "I kiss your hands, then, madam," said Peveril, "and humbly beg you to + believe, that whatever may fail in my present undertaking, my purpose to + serve you, my noble kinswoman and benefactress, can at least never swerve + or falter." + </p> + <p> + "I know it, my son, I know it; and may God forgive me if my anxiety for + your friend has sent you on dangers which should have been his! Go—go—May + saints and angels bless you! Fenella shall acquaint him that you sup in + your own apartment. So indeed will I; for to-night I should be unable to + face my son's looks. Little will he thank me for sending you on his + errand; and there will be many to ask, whether it was like the Lady of + Latham to trust her friend's son on the danger which should have been + braved by her own. But oh! Julian, I am now a forlorn widow, whom sorrow + has made selfish!" + </p> + <p> + "Tush, madam," answered Peveril; "it is more unlike the Lady of Latham to + anticipate dangers which may not exist at all, and to which, if they do + indeed occur, I am less obnoxious than my noble kinsman. Farewell!—All + blessings attend you, madam. Commend me to Derby, and make him my excuses. + I shall expect a summons at two hours after midnight." + </p> + <p> + They took an affectionate leave of each other; the more affectionate, + indeed, on the part of the Countess, that she could not entirely reconcile + her generous mind to exposing Peveril to danger on her son's behalf; and + Julian betook himself to his solitary apartment. + </p> + <p> + His servant soon afterwards brought him wine and refreshments; to which, + notwithstanding the various matters he had to occupy his mind, he + contrived to do reasonable justice. But when this needful occupation was + finished, his thoughts began to stream in upon him like a troubled tide—at + once recalling the past, and anticipating the future. It was in vain that + he wrapped himself in his riding cloak, and, lying down on his bed, + endeavoured to compose himself to sleep. The uncertainty of the prospect + before him—the doubt how Bridgenorth might dispose of his daughter + during his absence—the fear that the Major himself might fall into + the power of the vindictive Countess, besides a numerous train of vague + and half-formed apprehensions, agitated his blood, and rendered slumber + impossible. Alternately to recline in the old oaken easy-chair, and listen + to the dashing of the waves under the windows, mingled, as the sound was, + with the scream of the sea-birds; or traverse the apartment with long and + slow steps, pausing occasionally to look out on the sea, slumbering under + the influence of a full moon, which tipped each wave with silver—such + were the only pastimes he could invent, until midnight had passed for one + hour; the next was wasted in anxious expectation of the summons of + departure. + </p> + <p> + At length it arrived—a tap at his door was followed by a low murmur, + which made him suspect that the Countess had again employed her mute + attendant as the most secure minister of her pleasure on this occasion. He + felt something like impropriety in this selection; and it was with a + feeling of impatience alien to the natural generosity of his temper, that, + when he opened the door, he beheld the dumb maiden standing before him. + The lamp which he held in his hand showed his features distinctly, and + probably made Fenella aware of the expression which animated them. She + cast her large dark eyes mournfully on the ground; and, without again + looking him in the face, made him a signal to follow her. He delayed no + longer than was necessary to secure his pistols in his belt, wrap his + cloak closer around him, and take his small portmanteau under his arm. + Thus accoutred, he followed her out of the Keep, or inhabited part of the + Castle, by a series of obscure passages leading to a postern gate, which + she unlocked with a key, selected from a bundle which she carried at her + girdle. + </p> + <p> + They now stood in the castle-yard, in the open moonlight, which glimmered + white and ghastly on the variety of strange and ruinous objects to which + we have formerly alluded, and which gave the scene rather the appearance + of some ancient cemetery, than of the interior of a fortification. The + round and elevated tower—the ancient mount, with its quadrangular + sides facing the ruinous edifices which once boasted the name of Cathedral—seemed + of yet more antique and anomalous form, when seen by the pale light which + now displayed them. To one of these churches Fenella took the direct + course, and was followed by Julian; although he at once divined, and was + superstitious enough to dislike, the path which she was about to adopt. It + was by a secret passage through this church that in former times the + guard-room of the garrison, situated at the lower and external defences, + communicated with the Keep of the Castle; and through this passage were + the keys of the Castle every night carried to the Governor's apartment, so + soon as the gates were locked, and the watch set. The custom was given up + in James the First's time, and the passage abandoned, on account of the + well-known legend of the <i>Mauthe Dog</i>—a fiend, or demon, in the + shape of a large, shaggy, black mastiff, by which the church was said to + be haunted. It was devoutly believed, that in former times this spectre + became so familiar with mankind, as to appear nightly in the guard-room, + issuing from the passage which we have mentioned at night, and retiring to + it at daybreak. The soldiers became partly familiarised to its presence; + yet not so much so as to use any licence of language while the apparition + was visible; until one fellow, rendered daring by intoxication, swore he + would know whether it was dog or devil, and, with his drawn sword, + followed the spectre when it retreated by the usual passage. The man + returned in a few minutes, sobered by terror, his mouth gaping, and his + hair standing on end, under which horror he died; but, unhappily for the + lovers of the marvellous, altogether unable to disclose the horrors which + he had seen. Under the evil repute arising from this tale of wonder, the + guard-room was abandoned, and a new one constructed. In like manner, the + guards after that period held another and more circuitous communication + with the Governor or Seneschal of the Castle; and that which lay through + the ruinous church was entirely abandoned. + </p> + <p> + In defiance of the legendary terrors which tradition had attached to the + original communication, Fenella, followed by Peveril, now boldly traversed + the ruinous vaults through which it lay—sometimes only guided over + heaps of ruins by the precarious light of the lamp borne by the dumb + maiden—sometimes having the advantage of a gleam of moonlight, + darting into the dreary abyss through the shafted windows, or through + breaches made by time. As the path was by no means a straight one, Peveril + could not but admire the intimate acquaintance with the mazes which his + singular companion displayed, as well as the boldness with which she + traversed them. He himself was not so utterly void of the prejudices of + the times, but that he contemplated, with some apprehension, the + possibility of their intruding on the lair of the phantom hound, of which + he had heard so often; and in every remote sight of the breeze among the + ruins, he thought he heard him baying at the mortal footsteps which + disturbed his gloomy realm. No such terrors, however, interrupted their + journey; and in the course of a few minutes, they attained the deserted + and now ruinous guard-house. The broken walls of the little edifice served + to conceal them from the sentinels, one of whom was keeping a drowsy watch + at the lower gate of the Castle; whilst another, seated on the stone steps + which communicated with the parapet of the bounding and exterior wall, was + slumbering, in full security, with his musket peacefully grounded by his + side. Fenella made a sign to Peveril to move with silence and caution, and + then showed him, to his surprise, from the window of the deserted + guard-room, a boat, for it was now high water, with four rowers, lurking + under the cliff on which the castle was built; and made him farther + sensible that he was to have access to it by a ladder of considerable + height placed at the window of the ruin. + </p> + <p> + Julian was both displeased and alarmed by the security and carelessness of + the sentinels, who had suffered such preparations to be made without + observation or alarm given; and he hesitated whether he should not call + the officer of the guard, upbraid him with negligence, and show him how + easily Holm-Peel, in spite of its natural strength, and although reported + impregnable, might be surprised by a few resolute men. Fenella seemed to + guess his thoughts with that extreme acuteness of observation which her + deprivations had occasioned her acquiring. She laid one hand on his arm, + and a finger of the other on her own lips, as if to enjoin forbearance; + and Julian, knowing that she acted by the direct authority of the + Countess, obeyed her accordingly; but with the internal resolution to lose + no time in communicating his sentiments to the Earl, concerning the danger + to which the Castle was exposed on this point. + </p> + <p> + In the meantime, he descended the ladder with some precaution, for the + steps were unequal, broken, wet, and slippery; and having placed himself + in the stern of the boat, made a signal to the men to push off, and turned + to take farewell of his guide. To his utter astonishment, Fenella rather + slid down, than descended regularly, the perilous ladder, and, the boat + being already pushed off, made a spring from the last step of it with + incredible agility, and seated herself beside Peveril, ere he could + express either remonstrance or surprise. He commanded the men once more to + pull in to the precarious landing-place; and throwing into his countenance + a part of the displeasure which he really felt, endeavoured to make her + comprehend the necessity of returning to her mistress. Fenella folded her + arms, and looked at him with a haughty smile, which completely expressed + the determination of her purpose. Peveril was extremely embarrassed; he + was afraid of offending the Countess, and interfering with her plan, by + giving alarm, which otherwise he was much tempted to have done. On + Fenella, it was evident, no species of argument which he could employ was + likely to make the least impression; and the question remained, how, if + she went on with him, he was to rid himself of so singular and + inconvenient a companion, and provide, at the same time, sufficiently for + her personal security. + </p> + <p> + The boatmen brought the matter to a decision; for, after lying on their + oars for a minute, and whispering among themselves in Low Dutch or German, + they began to pull stoutly, and were soon at some distance from the + Castle. The possibility of the sentinels sending a musket-ball, or even a + cannon-shot, after them, was one of the contingencies which gave Peveril + momentary anxiety; but they left the fortress, as they must have + approached it, unnoticed, or at least unchallenged—a carelessness on + the part of the garrison, which, notwithstanding that the oars were + muffled, and that the men spoke little, and in whispers, argued, in + Peveril's opinion, great negligence on the part of the sentinels. When + they were a little way from the Castle, the men began to row briskly + towards a small vessel which lay at some distance. Peveril had, in the + meantime, leisure to remark, that the boatmen spoke to each other + doubtfully, and bent anxious looks on Fenella, as if uncertain whether + they had acted properly in bringing her off. + </p> + <p> + After about a quarter of an hour's rowing, they reached the little sloop, + where Peveril was received by the skipper, or captain, on the + quarter-deck, with an offer of spirits or refreshments. A word or two + among the seamen withdrew the captain from his hospitable cares, and he + flew to the ship's side, apparently to prevent Fenella from entering the + vessel. The men and he talked eagerly in Dutch, looking anxiously at + Fenella as they spoke together; and Peveril hoped the result would be, + that the poor woman should be sent ashore again. But she baffled whatever + opposition could be offered to her; and when the accommodation-ladder, as + it is called, was withdrawn, she snatched the end of a rope, and climbed + on board with the dexterity of a sailor, leaving them no means of + preventing her entrance, save by actual violence, to which apparently they + did not choose to have recourse. Once on deck, she took the captain by the + sleeve, and led him to the head of the vessel, where they seemed to hold + intercourse in a manner intelligible to both. + </p> + <p> + Peveril soon forgot the presence of the mute, as he began to muse upon his + own situation, and the probability that he was separated for some + considerable time from the object of his affections. "Constancy," he + repeated to himself,—"Constancy." And, as if in coincidence with the + theme of his reflections, he fixed his eyes on the polar star, which that + night twinkled with more than ordinary brilliancy. Emblem of pure passion + and steady purpose—the thoughts which arose as he viewed its clear + and unchanging light, were disinterested and noble. To seek his country's + welfare, and secure the blessings of domestic peace—to discharge a + bold and perilous duty to his friend and patron—to regard his + passion for Alice Bridgenorth, as the loadstar which was to guide him to + noble deeds—were the resolutions which thronged upon his mind, and + which exalted his spirits to that state of romantic melancholy, which + perhaps is ill exchanged even for feelings of joyful rapture. + </p> + <p> + He was recalled from those contemplations by something which nestled + itself softly and closely to his side—a woman's sigh sounded so near + him, as to disturb his reverie; and as he turned his head, he saw Fenella + seated beside him, with her eyes fixed on the same star which had just + occupied his own. His first emotion was that of displeasure; but it was + impossible to persevere in it towards a being so helpless in many + respects, so interesting in others; whose large dark eyes were filled with + dew, which glistened in the moonlight; and the source of whose emotions + seemed to be in a partiality which might well claim indulgence, at least + from him who was the object of it. At the same time, Julian resolved to + seize the present opportunity, for such expostulations with Fenella on the + strangeness of her conduct, as the poor maiden might be able to + comprehend. He took her hand with great kindness, but at the same time + with much gravity, pointed to the boat, and to the Castle, whose towers + and extended walls were now scarce visible in the distance; and thus + intimated to her the necessity of her return to Holm-Peel. She looked + down, and shook her head, as if negativing his proposal with obstinate + decision. Julian renewed his expostulation by look and gesture—pointed + to his own heart, to intimate the Countess—and bent his brows, to + show the displeasure which she must entertain. To all which the maiden + only answered by her tears. + </p> + <p> + At length, as if driven to explanation by his continued remonstrances, she + suddenly seized him by the arm, to arrest his attention—cast her eye + hastily around, as if to see whether she was watched by any one—then + drew the other hand, edge-wise, across her slender throat—pointed to + the boat, and to the Castle, and nodded. + </p> + <p> + On this series of signs, Peveril could put no interpretation, excepting + that he was menaced with some personal danger, from which Fenella seemed + to conceive that her presence was a protection. Whatever was her meaning, + her purpose seemed unalterably adopted; at least it was plain he had no + power to shake it. He must therefore wait till the end of their short + voyage, to disembarrass himself of his companion; and, in the meanwhile, + acting on the idea of her having harboured a misplaced attachment to him, + he thought he should best consult her interest, and his own character, in + keeping at as great a distance from her as circumstances admitted. With + this purpose, he made the sign she used for going to sleep, by leaning his + head on his palm; and having thus recommended to her to go to rest, he + himself desired to be conducted to his berth. + </p> + <p> + The captain readily showed him a hammock, in the after-cabin, into which + he threw himself, to seek that repose which the exercise and agitation of + the preceding day, as well as the lateness of the hour, made him now feel + desirable. Sleep, deep and heavy, sunk down on him in a few minutes, but + it did not endure long. In his sleep he was disturbed by female cries; and + at length, as he thought, distinctly heard the voice of Alice Bridgenorth + call on his name. + </p> + <p> + He awoke, and starting up to quit his bed, became sensible, from the + motion of the vessel, and the swinging of the hammock, that his dream had + deceived him. He was still startled by its extreme vivacity and + liveliness. "Julian Peveril, help! Julian Peveril!" The sounds still rung + in his ears—the accents were those of Alice—and he could + scarce persuade himself that his imagination had deceived him. Could she + be in the same vessel? The thought was not altogether inconsistent with + her father's character, and the intrigues in which he was engaged; but + then, if so, to what peril was she exposed, that she invoked his name so + loudly? + </p> + <p> + Determined to make instant inquiry, he jumped out of his hammock, + half-dressed as he was, and stumbling about the little cabin, which was as + dark as pitch, at length, with considerable difficulty, reached the door. + The door, however, he was altogether unable to open; and was obliged to + call loudly to the watch upon deck. The skipper, or captain, as he was + called, being the only person aboard who could speak English, answered to + the summons, and replied to Peveril's demand, what noise that was?—that + a boat was going off with the young woman—that she whimpered a + little as she left the vessel—and "dat vaas all." + </p> + <p> + His dream was thus fully explained. Fancy had caught up the inarticulate + and vehement cries with which Fenella was wont to express resistance or + displeasure—had coined them into language, and given them the + accents of Alice Bridgenorth. Our imagination plays wilder tricks with us + almost every night. + </p> + <p> + The captain now undid the door, and appeared with a lantern; without the + aid of which Peveril could scarce have regained his couch, where he now + slumbered secure and sound, until day was far advanced, and the invitation + of the captain called him up to breakfast. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0020" id="link2HCH0020"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XX + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Now, what is this that haunts me like my shadow, + Frisking and mumming like an elf in moonlight! + —BEN JONSON. +</pre> + <p> + Peveril found the master of the vessel rather less rude than those in his + station of life usually are, and received from him full satisfaction + concerning the fate of Fenella, upon whom the captain bestowed a hearty + curse, for obliging him to lay-to until he had sent his boat ashore, and + had her back again. + </p> + <p> + "I hope," said Peveril, "no violence was necessary to reconcile her to go + ashore? I trust she offered no foolish resistance?" + </p> + <p> + "Resist! mein Gott," said the captain, "she did resist like a troop of + horse—she did cry, you might hear her at Whitehaven—she did go + up the rigging like a cat up a chimney; but dat vas ein trick of her old + trade." + </p> + <p> + "What trade do you mean?" said Peveril. + </p> + <p> + "Oh," said the seaman, "I vas know more about her than you, Meinheer. I + vas know that she vas a little, very little girl, and prentice to one + seiltanzer, when my lady yonder had the good luck to buy her." + </p> + <p> + "A seiltanzer!" said Peveril; "what do you mean by that?" + </p> + <p> + "I mean a rope-danzer, a mountebank, a Hans pickel-harring. I vas know + Adrian Brackel vell—he sell de powders dat empty men's stomach, and + fill him's own purse. Not know Adrian Brackel, mein Gott! I have smoked + many a pound of tabak with him." + </p> + <p> + Peveril now remembered that Fenella had been brought into the family when + he and the young Earl were in England, and while the Countess was absent + on an expedition to the continent. Where the Countess found her, she never + communicated to the young men; but only intimated, that she had received + her out of compassion, in order to relieve her from a situation of extreme + distress. + </p> + <p> + He hinted so much to the communicative seaman, who replied, "that for + distress he knew nocht's on't; only, that Adrian Brackel beat her when she + would not dance on the rope, and starved her when she did, to prevent her + growth." The bargain between the countess and the mountebank, he said, he + had made himself; because the Countess had hired his brig upon her + expedition to the continent. None else knew where she came from. The + Countess had seen her on a public stage at Ostend—compassionated her + helpless situation, and the severe treatment she received—and had + employed him to purchase the poor creature from her master, and charged + him with silence towards all her retinue.—"And so I do keep + silence," continued the faithful confidant, "van I am in the havens of + Man; but when I am on the broad seas, den my tongue is mine own, you know. + Die foolish beoples in the island, they say she is a wechsel-balg—what + you call a fairy-elf changeling. My faith, they do not never have seen ein + wechsel-balg; for I saw one myself at Cologne, and it was twice as big as + yonder girl, and did break the poor people, with eating them up, like de + great big cuckoo in the sparrow's nest; but this Venella eat no more than + other girls—it was no wechsel-balg in the world." + </p> + <p> + By a different train of reasoning, Julian had arrived at the same + conclusion; in which, therefore, he heartily acquiesced. During the + seaman's prosing, he was reflecting within himself, how much of the + singular flexibility of her limbs and movements the unfortunate girl must + have derived from the discipline and instructions of Adrian Brackel; and + also how far the germs of her wilful and capricious passions might have + been sown during her wandering and adventurous childhood. Aristocratic, + also, as his education had been, these anecdotes respecting Fenella's + original situation and education, rather increased his pleasure of having + shaken off her company; and yet he still felt desirous to know any farther + particulars which the seaman could communicate on the same subject. But he + had already told all he knew. Of her parents he knew nothing, except that + "her father must have been a damned hundsfoot, and a schelm, for selling + his own flesh and blood to Adrian Brackel;" for by such a transaction had + the mountebank become possessed of his pupil. + </p> + <p> + This conversation tended to remove any passing doubts which might have + crept on Peveril's mind concerning the fidelity of the master of the + vessel, who appeared from thence to have been a former acquaintance of the + Countess, and to have enjoyed some share of her confidence. The + threatening motion used by Fenella, he no longer considered as worthy of + any notice, excepting as a new mark of the irritability of her temper. + </p> + <p> + He amused himself with walking the deck, and musing on his past and future + prospects, until his attention was forcibly arrested by the wind, which + began to rise in gusts from the north-west, in a manner so unfavourable to + the course they intended to hold, that the master, after many efforts to + beat against it, declared his bark, which was by no means an excellent + sea-boat, was unequal to making Whitehaven; and that he was compelled to + make a fair wind of it, and run for Liverpool. To this course Peveril did + not object. It saved him some land journey, in case he visited his + father's castle; and the Countess's commission would be discharged as + effectually the one way as the other. + </p> + <p> + The vessel was put, accordingly, before the wind, and ran with great + steadiness and velocity. The captain, notwithstanding, pleading some + nautical hazards, chose to lie off, and did not attempt the mouth of the + Mersey until morning, when Peveril had at length the satisfaction of being + landed upon the quay of Liverpool, which even then showed symptoms of the + commercial prosperity that has since been carried to such a height. + </p> + <p> + The master, who was well acquainted with the port, pointed out to Julian a + decent place of entertainment, chiefly frequented by seafaring people; + for, although he had been in the town formerly, he did not think it proper + to go anywhere at present where he might have been unnecessarily + recognised. Here he took leave of the seaman, after pressing upon him with + difficulty a small present for his crew. As for his passage, the captain + declined any recompense whatever; and they parted upon the most civil + terms. + </p> + <p> + The inn to which he was recommended was full of strangers, seamen, and + mercantile people, all intent upon their own affairs, and discussing them + with noise and eagerness, peculiar to the business of a thriving seaport. + But although the general clamour of the public room, in which the guests + mixed with each other, related chiefly to their own commercial dealings, + there was a general theme mingling with them, which was alike common and + interesting to all; so that, amidst disputes about freight, tonnage, + demurrage, and such like, were heard the emphatic sounds of "Deep, + damnable, accursed plot,"—"Bloody Papist villains,"—"The King + in danger—the gallows too good for them," and so forth. + </p> + <p> + The fermentation excited in London had plainly reached even this remote + seaport, and was received by the inhabitants with the peculiar stormy + energy which invests men in their situation with the character of the + winds and waves with which they are chiefly conversant. The commercial and + nautical interests of England were indeed particularly anti-Catholic; + although it is not, perhaps, easy to give any distinct reason why they + should be so, since theological disputes in general could scarce be + considered as interesting to them. But zeal, amongst the lower orders at + least, is often in an inverse ratio to knowledge; and sailors were not + probably the less earnest and devoted Protestants, that they did not + understand the controversy between the Churches. As for the merchants, + they were almost necessarily inimical to the gentry of Lancashire and + Cheshire; many of whom still retained the faith of Rome, which was + rendered ten times more odious to the men of commerce, as the badge of + their haughty aristocratic neighbours. + </p> + <p> + From the little which Peveril heard of the sentiments of the people of + Liverpool, he imagined he should act most prudently in leaving the place + as soon as possible, and before any suspicion should arise of his having + any connection with the party which appeared to have become so obnoxious. + </p> + <p> + In order to accomplish his journey, it was first necessary that he should + purchase a horse; and for this purpose he resolved to have recourse to the + stables of a dealer well known at the time, and who dwelt in the outskirts + of the place; and having obtained directions to his dwelling, he went + thither to provide himself. + </p> + <p> + Joe Bridlesley's stables exhibited a large choice of good horses; for that + trade was in former days more active than at present. It was an ordinary + thing for a stranger to buy a horse for the purpose of a single journey, + and to sell him, as well as he could, when he had reached the point of his + destination; and hence there was a constant demand, and a corresponding + supply; upon both of which, Bridlesley, and those of his trade, contrived, + doubtless, to make handsome profits. + </p> + <p> + Julian, who was no despicable horse-jockey, selected for his purpose a + strong well-made horse, about sixteen hands high, and had him led into the + yard, to see whether the paces corresponded with his appearance. As these + also gave perfect satisfaction to the customer, it remained only to settle + the price with Bridlesley; who of course swore his customer had pitched + upon the best horse ever darkened the stable-door, since he had dealt that + way; that no such horses were to be had nowadays, for that the mares were + dead that foaled them; and having named a corresponding price, the usual + haggling commenced betwixt the seller and purchaser, for adjustment of + what the French dealers call <i>le prix juste</i>. + </p> + <p> + The reader, if he be at all acquainted with this sort of traffic, well + knows it is generally a keen encounter of wits, and attracts the notice of + all the idlers within hearing, who are usually very ready to offer their + opinions, or their evidence. Amongst these, upon the present occasion, was + a thin man, rather less than the ordinary size, and meanly dressed; but + whose interference was in a confident tone, and such as showed himself + master of the subject on which he spoke. The price of the horse being + settled to about fifteen pounds, which was very high for the period, that + of the saddle and bridle had next to be adjusted, and the thin + mean-looking person before-mentioned, found nearly as much to say on this + subject as on the other. As his remarks had a conciliating and obliging + tendency towards the stranger, Peveril concluded he was one of those idle + persons, who, unable or unwilling to supply themselves with the means of + indulgence at their own cost, do not scruple to deserve them at the hands + of others, by a little officious complaisance; and considering that he + might acquire some useful information from such a person, was just about + to offer him the courtesy of a morning draught, when he observed he had + suddenly left the yard. He had scarce remarked this circumstance, before a + party of customers entered the place, whose haughty assumption of + importance claimed the instant attention of Bridlesley, and all his + militia of grooms and stable-boys. + </p> + <p> + "Three good horses," said the leader of the party, a tall bulky man, whose + breath was drawn full and high, under a consciousness of fat, and of + importance—"three good and able-bodied horses, for the service of + the Commons of England." + </p> + <p> + Bridlesley said he had some horses which might serve the Speaker himself + at need; but that, to speak Christian truth, he had just sold the best in + his stable to that gentleman present, who, doubtless, would give up the + bargain if the horse was needed for the service of the State. + </p> + <p> + "You speak well, friend," said the important personage; and advancing to + Julian, demanded, in a very haughty tone, the surrender of the purchase + which he had just made. + </p> + <p> + Peveril, with some difficulty, subdued the strong desire which he felt to + return a round refusal to so unreasonable a request, but fortunately, + recollecting that the situation in which he at present stood, required, on + his part, much circumspection, he replied simply, that upon showing him + any warrant to seize upon horses for the public service, he must of course + submit to resign his purchase. + </p> + <p> + The man, with an air of extreme dignity, pulled from his pocket, and + thrust into Peveril's hand, a warrant, subscribed by the Speaker of the + House of Commons, empowering Charles Topham, their officer of the Black + Rod, to pursue and seize upon the persons of certain individuals named in + the warrant; and of all other persons who are, or should be, accused by + competent witnesses, of being accessory to, or favourers of, the hellish + and damnable Popish Plot, at present carried on within the bowels of the + kingdom; and charging all men, as they loved their allegiance, to render + the said Charles Topham their readiest and most effective assistance, in + execution of the duty entrusted to his care. + </p> + <p> + On perusing a document of such weighty import, Julian had no hesitation to + give up his horse to this formidable functionary; whom somebody compared + to a lion, which, as the House of Commons was pleased to maintain such an + animal, they were under the necessity of providing for by frequent + commitments; until "<i>Take him, Topham</i>," became a proverb, and a + formidable one, in the mouth of the public. + </p> + <p> + The acquiescence of Peveril procured him some grace in the sight of the + emissary; who, before selecting two horses for his attendants, gave + permission to the stranger to purchase a grey horse, much inferior, + indeed, to that which he had resigned, both in form and in action, but + very little lower in price, as Mr. Bridlesley, immediately on learning the + demand for horses upon the part of the Commons of England, had passed a + private resolution in his own mind, augmenting the price of his whole + stud, by an imposition of at least twenty per cent., <i>ad valorem</i>. + </p> + <p> + Peveril adjusted and paid the price with much less argument than on the + former occasion; for, to be plain with the reader, he had noticed in the + warrant of Mr. Topham, the name of his father, Sir Geoffrey Peveril of + Martindale Castle, engrossed at full length, as one of those subjected to + arrest by that officer. + </p> + <p> + When aware of this material fact, it became Julian's business to leave + Liverpool directly, and carry the alarm to Derbyshire, if, indeed, Mr. + Topham had not already executed his charge in that county, which he + thought unlikely, as it was probable they would commence by securing those + who lived nearest to the seaports. A word or two which he overheard + strengthened his hopes. + </p> + <p> + "And hark ye, friend," said Mr. Topham; "you will have the horses at the + door of Mr. Shortell, the mercer, in two hours, as we shall refresh + ourselves there with a cool tankard, and learn what folks live in the + neighbourhood that may be concerned in my way. And you will please to have + that saddle padded, for I am told the Derbyshire roads are rough.—And + you, Captain Dangerfield, and Master Everett, you must put on your + Protestant spectacles, and show me where there is the shadow of a priest, + or of a priest's favourer; for I am come down with a broom in my cap to + sweep this north country of such like cattle." + </p> + <p> + One of the persons he thus addressed, who wore the garb of a broken-down + citizen, only answered, "Ay, truly, Master Topham, it is time to purge the + garner." + </p> + <p> + The other, who had a formidable pair of whiskers, a red nose, and a + tarnished laced coat, together with a hat of Pistol's dimensions, was more + loquacious. "I take it on my damnation," said this zealous Protestant + witness, "that I will discover the marks of the beast on every one of them + betwixt sixteen and seventy, as plainly as if they had crossed themselves + with ink, instead of holy water. Since we have a King willing to do + justice, and a House of Commons to uphold prosecutions, why, damn me, the + cause must not stand still for lack of evidence." + </p> + <p> + "Stick to that, noble captain," answered the officer; "but, prithee, + reserve thy oaths for the court of justice; it is but sheer waste to throw + them away, as you do in your ordinary conversation." + </p> + <p> + "Fear you nothing, Master Topham," answered Dangerfield; "it is right to + keep a man's gifts in use; and were I altogether to renounce oaths in my + private discourse, how should I know how to use one when I needed it? But + you hear me use none of your Papist abjurations. I swear not by the mass, + or before George, or by anything that belongs to idolatry; but such + downright oaths as may serve a poor Protestant gentleman, who would fain + serve Heaven and the King." + </p> + <p> + "Bravely spoken, most noble Festus," said his yoke-fellow. "But do not + suppose, that although I am not in the habit of garnishing my words with + oaths out of season, I shall be wanting, when called upon, to declare the + height and the depth, the width and the length, of this hellish plot + against the King and the Protestant faith." + </p> + <p> + Dizzy, and almost sick, with listening to the undisguised brutality of + these fellows, Peveril, having with difficulty prevailed on Bridlesley to + settle his purchase, at length led forth his grey steed; but was scarce + out of the yard, when he heard the following alarming conversation pass, + of which he seemed himself the object. + </p> + <p> + "Who is that youth?" said the slow soft voice of the more precise of the + two witnesses. "Methinks I have seen him somewhere before. Is he from + these parts?" + </p> + <p> + "Not that I know of," said Bridlesley; who, like all the other inhabitants + of England at the time, answered the interrogatories of these fellows with + the deference which is paid in Spain to the questions of an inquisitor. "A + stranger—entirely a stranger—never saw him before—a wild + young colt, I warrant him; and knows a horse's mouth as well as I do." + </p> + <p> + "I begin to bethink me I saw such a face as his at the Jesuits' consult, + in the White Horse Tavern," answered Everett. + </p> + <p> + "And I think I recollect," said Captain Dangerfield—— + </p> + <p> + "Come, come, master and captain," said the authoritative voice of Topham, + "we will have none of your recollections at present. We all know what + these are likely to end in. But I will have you know, you are not to run + till the leash is slipped. The young man is a well-looking lad, and gave + up his horse handsomely for the service of the House of Commons. He knows + how to behave himself to his betters, I warrant you; and I scarce think he + has enough in his purse to pay the fees." + </p> + <p> + This speech concluded the dialogue, which Peveril, finding himself so much + concerned in the issue, thought it best to hear to an end. Now, when it + ceased, to get out of the town unobserved, and take the nearest way to his + father's castle, seemed his wisest plan. He had settled his reckoning at + the inn, and brought with him to Bridlesley's the small portmanteau which + contained his few necessaries, so that he had no occasion to return + thither. He resolved, therefore, to ride some miles before he stopped, + even for the purpose of feeding his horse; and being pretty well + acquainted with the country, he hoped to be able to push forward to + Martindale Castle sooner than the worshipful Master Topham; whose saddle + was, in the first place, to be padded, and who, when mounted, would, in + all probability, ride with the precaution of those who require such + security against the effects of a hard trot. + </p> + <p> + Under the influence of these feelings, Julian pushed for Warrington, a + place with which he was well acquainted; but, without halting in the town, + he crossed the Mersey, by the bridge built by an ancestor of his friend + the Earl of Derby, and continued his route towards Dishley, on the borders + of Derbyshire. He might have reached this latter village easily, had his + horse been fitter for a forced march; but in the course of the journey, he + had occasion, more than once, to curse the official dignity of the person + who had robbed him of his better steed, while taking the best direction he + could through a country with which he was only generally acquainted. + </p> + <p> + At length, near Altringham, a halt became unavoidable; and Peveril had + only to look for some quiet and sequestered place of refreshment. This + presented itself, in the form of a small cluster of cottages; the best of + which united the characters of an alehouse and a mill, where the sign of + the Cat (the landlord's faithful ally in defence of his meal-sacks), + booted as high as Grimalkin in the fairy tale, and playing on the fiddle + for the more grace, announced that John Whitecraft united the two honest + occupations of landlord and miller; and, doubtless, took toll from the + public in both capacities. + </p> + <p> + Such a place promised a traveller, who journeyed incognito, safer, if not + better accommodation, than he was like to meet with in more frequented + inns; and at the door of the Cat and Fiddle, Julian halted accordingly. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0021" id="link2HCH0021"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXI + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + In these distracted times, when each man dreads + The bloody stratagems of busy hands. + —OTWAY. +</pre> + <p> + At the door of the Cat and Fiddle, Julian received the usual attention + paid to the customers of an inferior house of entertainment. His horse was + carried by a ragged lad, who acted as hostler, into a paltry stable; + where, however, the nag was tolerably supplied with food and litter. + </p> + <p> + Having seen the animal on which his comfort, perhaps his safety, depended, + properly provided for, Peveril entered the kitchen, which indeed was also + the parlour and hall of the little hostelry, to try what refreshment he + could obtain for himself. Much to his satisfaction, he found there was + only one guest in the house besides himself; but he was less pleased when + he found that he must either go without dinner, or share with that single + guest the only provisions which chanced to be in the house, namely, a dish + of trouts and eels, which their host, the miller, had brought in from his + mill-stream. + </p> + <p> + At the particular request of Julian, the landlady undertook to add a + substantial dish of eggs and bacon, which perhaps she would not have + undertaken for, had not the sharp eye of Peveril discovered the flitch + hanging in its smoky retreat, when, as its presence could not be denied, + the hostess was compelled to bring it forward as a part of her supplies. + </p> + <p> + She was a buxom dame about thirty, whose comely and cheerful countenance + did honour to the choice of the jolly miller, her loving mate; and was now + stationed under the shade of an old-fashioned huge projecting chimney, + within which it was her province to "work i' the fire," and provide for + the wearied wayfaring man, the good things which were to send him + rejoicing on his course. Although, at first, the honest woman seemed + little disposed to give herself much additional trouble on Julian's + account, yet the good looks, handsome figure, and easy civility of her new + guest, soon bespoke the principal part of her attention; and while busy in + his service, she regarded him, from time to time, with looks, where + something like pity mingled with complacency. The rich smoke of the + rasher, and the eggs with which it was flanked, already spread itself + through the apartment; and the hissing of these savoury viands bore chorus + to the simmering of the pan, in which the fish were undergoing a slower + decoction. The table was covered with a clean huck-aback napkin, and all + was in preparation for the meal, which Julian began to expect with a good + deal of impatience, when the companion, who was destined to share it with + him, entered the apartment. + </p> + <p> + At the first glance Julian recognised, to his surprise, the same + indifferently dressed, thin-looking person, who, during the first bargain + which he had made with Bridlesley, had officiously interfered with his + advice and opinion. Displeased at having the company of any stranger + forced upon him, Peveril was still less satisfied to find one who might + make some claim of acquaintance with him, however slender, since the + circumstances in which he stood compelled him to be as reserved as + possible. He therefore turned his back upon his destined messmate, and + pretended to amuse himself by looking out of the window, determined to + avoid all intercourse until it should be inevitably forced upon him. + </p> + <p> + In the meanwhile, the other stranger went straight up to the landlady, + where she toiled on household cares intent, and demanded of her, what she + meant by preparing bacon and eggs, when he had positively charged her to + get nothing ready but the fish. + </p> + <p> + The good woman, important as every cook in the discharge of her duty, + deigned not for some time so much as to acknowledge that she heard the + reproof of her guest; and when she did so, it was only to repel it in a + magisterial and authoritative tone.—"If he did not like bacon—(bacon + from their own hutch, well fed on pease and bran)—if he did not like + bacon and eggs—(new-laid eggs, which she had brought in from the + hen-roost with her own hands)—why so put case—it was the worse + for his honour, and the better for those who did." + </p> + <p> + "The better for those who like them?" answered the guest; "that is as much + as to say I am to have a companion, good woman." + </p> + <p> + "Do not good woman me, sir," replied the miller's wife, "till I call you + good man; and, I promise you, many would scruple to do that to one who + does not love eggs and bacon of a Friday." + </p> + <p> + "Nay, my good lady," said her guest, "do not fix any misconstruction upon + me—I dare say the eggs and the bacon are excellent; only they are + rather a dish too heavy for my stomach." + </p> + <p> + "Ay, or your conscience perhaps, sir," answered the hostess. "And now, I + bethink me, you must needs have your fish fried with oil, instead of the + good drippings I was going to put to them. I would I could spell the + meaning of all this now; but I warrant John Bigstaff, the constable, could + conjure something out of it." + </p> + <p> + There was a pause here; but Julian, somewhat alarmed at the tone which the + conversation assumed, became interested in watching the dumb show which + succeeded. By bringing his head a little towards the left, but without + turning round, or quitting the projecting latticed window where he had + taken his station, he could observe that the stranger, secured, as he + seemed to think himself, from observation, had sidled close up to the + landlady, and, as he conceived, had put a piece of money into her hand. + The altered tone of the miller's moiety corresponded very much with this + supposition. + </p> + <p> + "Nay, indeed, and forsooth," she said, "her house was Liberty Hall; and so + should every publican's be. What was it to her what gentlefolks ate or + drank, providing they paid for it honestly? There were many honest + gentlemen, whose stomachs could not abide bacon, grease, or dripping, + especially on a Friday; and what was that to her, or any one in her line, + so gentlefolks paid honestly for the trouble? Only, she would say, that + her bacon and eggs could not be mended betwixt this and Liverpool, and + that she would live and die upon." + </p> + <p> + "I shall hardly dispute it," said the stranger; and turning towards + Julian, he added, "I wish this gentleman, who I suppose is my + trencher-companion, much joy of the dainties which I cannot assist him in + consuming." + </p> + <p> + "I assure you, sir," answered Peveril, who now felt himself compelled to + turn about, and reply with civility, "that it was with difficulty I could + prevail on my landlady to add my cover to yours, though she seems now such + a zealot for the consumption of eggs and bacon." + </p> + <p> + "I am zealous for nothing," said the landlady, "save that men would eat + their victuals, and pay their score; and if there be enough in one dish to + serve two guests, I see little purpose in dressing them two; however, they + are ready now, and done to a nicety.—Here, Alice! Alice!" + </p> + <p> + The sound of that well-known name made Julian start; but the Alice who + replied to the call ill resembled the vision which his imagination + connected with the accents, being a dowdy slipshod wench, the drudge of + the low inn which afforded him shelter. She assisted her mistress in + putting on the table the dishes which the latter had prepared; and a + foaming jug of home-brewed ale being placed betwixt them, was warranted by + Dame Whitecraft as excellent; "for," said she, "we know by practice that + too much water drowns the miller, and we spare it on our malt as we would + in our mill-dam." + </p> + <p> + "I drink to your health in it, dame," said the elder stranger; "and a cup + of thanks for these excellent fish; and to the drowning of all unkindness + between us." + </p> + <p> + "I thank you, sir," said the dame, "and wish you the like; but I dare not + pledge you, for our Gaffer says that ale is brewed too strong for women; + so I only drink a glass of canary at a time with a gossip, or any + gentleman guest that is so minded." + </p> + <p> + "You shall drink one with me, then, dame," said Peveril, "so you will let + me have a flagon." + </p> + <p> + "That you shall, sir, and as good as ever was broached; but I must to the + mill, to get the key from the goodman." + </p> + <p> + So saying, and tucking her clean gown through the pocket-holes, that her + steps might be the more alert, and her dress escape dust, off she tripped + to the mill, which lay close adjoining. + </p> + <p> + "A dainty dame, and dangerous, is the miller's wife," said the stranger, + looking at Peveril. "Is not that old Chaucer's phrase?" + </p> + <p> + "I—I believe so," said Peveril, not much read in Chaucer, who was + then even more neglected than at present; and much surprised at a literary + quotation from one of the mean appearance exhibited by the person before + him. + </p> + <p> + "Yes," answered the stranger, "I see that you, like other young gentlemen + of the time, are better acquainted with Cowley and Waller, than with the + 'well of English undefiled.' I cannot help differing. There are touches of + nature about the old bard of Woodstock, that, to me, are worth all the + turns of laborious wit in Cowley, and all the ornate and artificial + simplicity of his courtly competitor. The description, for instance, of + his country coquette— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + 'Wincing she was, as is a wanton colt, + Sweet as a flower, and upright as a bolt.' +</pre> + <p> + Then, again, for pathos, where will you mend the dying scene of Arcite? + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + 'Alas, my heart's queen! alas, my wife! + Giver at once, and ender of my life. + What is this world?—What axen men to have? + Now with his love—now in his cold grave + Alone, withouten other company.' +</pre> + <p> + But I tire you, sir; and do injustice to the poet, whom I remember but by + halves." + </p> + <p> + "On the contrary, sir," replied Peveril, "you make him more intelligible + to me in your recitation, than I have found him when I have tried to + peruse him myself." + </p> + <p> + "You were only frightened by the antiquated spelling, and 'the letters + black,'" said his companion. "It is many a scholar's case, who mistakes a + nut, which he could crack with a little exertion, for a bullet, which he + must needs break his teeth on; but yours are better employed.—Shall + I offer you some of this fish?" + </p> + <p> + "Not so, sir," replied Julian, willing to show himself a man of reading in + his turn; "I hold with old Caius, and profess to fear judgment, to fight + where I cannot choose, and to eat no fish." + </p> + <p> + The stranger cast a startled look around him at this observation, which + Julian had thrown out, on purpose to ascertain, if possible, the quality + of his companion, whose present language was so different from the + character he had assumed at Bridlesley's. His countenance, too, although + the features were of an ordinary, not to say mean cast, had that character + of intelligence which education gives to the most homely face; and his + manners were so easy and disembarrassed, as plainly showed a complete + acquaintance with society, as well as the habit of mingling with it in the + higher stages. The alarm which he had evidently shown at Peveril's answer, + was but momentary; for he almost instantly replied, with a smile, "I + promise you, sir, that you are in no dangerous company; for + notwithstanding my fish dinner, I am much disposed to trifle with some of + your savoury mess, if you will indulge me so far." + </p> + <p> + Peveril accordingly reinforced the stranger's trencher with what remained + of the bacon and eggs, and saw him swallow a mouthful or two with apparent + relish; but presently after began to dally with his knife and fork, like + one whose appetite was satiated; and then took a long draught of the black + jack, and handed his platter to the large mastiff dog, who, attracted by + the smell of the dinner, had sat down before him for some time, licking + his chops, and following with his eye every morsel which the guest raised + to his head. + </p> + <p> + "Here, my poor fellow," said he, "thou hast had no fish, and needest this + supernumerary trencher-load more than I do. I cannot withstand thy mute + supplication any longer." + </p> + <p> + The dog answered these courtesies by a civil shake of the tail, while he + gobbled up what was assigned him by the stranger's benevolence, in the + greater haste, that he heard his mistress's voice at the door. + </p> + <p> + "Here is the canary, gentlemen," said the landlady; "and the goodman has + set off the mill, to come to wait on you himself. He always does so, when + company drink wine." + </p> + <p> + "That he may come in for the host's, that is, for the lion's share," said + the stranger, looking at Peveril. + </p> + <p> + "The shot is mine," said Julian; "and if mine host will share it, I will + willingly bestow another quart on him, and on you, sir. I never break old + customs." + </p> + <p> + These sounds caught the ear of Gaffer Whitecraft, who had entered the + room, a strapping specimen of his robust trade, prepared to play the + civil, or the surly host, as his company should be acceptable or + otherwise. At Julian's invitation, he doffed his dusty bonnet—brushed + from his sleeve the looser particles of his professional dust—and + sitting down on the end of a bench, about a yard from the table, filled a + glass of canary, and drank to his guests, and "especially to this noble + gentleman," indicating Peveril, who had ordered the canary. + </p> + <p> + Julian returned the courtesy by drinking his health, and asking what news + were about in the country? + </p> + <p> + "Nought, sir, I hears on nought, except this Plot, as they call it, that + they are pursuing the Papishers about; but it brings water to my mill, as + the saying is. Between expresses hurrying hither and thither, and guards + and prisoners riding to and again, and the custom of the neighbours, that + come to speak over the news of an evening, nightly, I may say, instead of + once a week, why, the spigot is in use, gentlemen, and your land thrives; + and then I, serving as constable, and being a known Protestant, I have + tapped, I may venture to say, it may be ten stands of ale extraordinary, + besides a reasonable sale of wine for a country corner. Heaven make us + thankful, and keep all good Protestants from Plot and Popery." + </p> + <p> + "I can easily conceive, my friend," said Julian, "that curiosity is a + passion which runs naturally to the alehouse; and that anger, and + jealousy, and fear, are all of them thirsty passions, and great consumers + of home-brewed. But I am a perfect stranger in these parts; and I would + willingly learn, from a sensible man like you, a little of this same Plot, + of which men speak so much, and appear to know so little." + </p> + <p> + "Learn a little of it?—Why, it is the most horrible—the most + damnable, bloodthirsty beast of a Plot—But hold, hold, my good + master; I hope, in the first place, you believe there is a Plot; for, + otherwise, the Justice must have a word with you, as sure as my name is + John Whitecraft." + </p> + <p> + "It shall not need," said Peveril; "for I assure you, mine host, I believe + in the Plot as freely and fully as a man can believe in anything he cannot + understand." + </p> + <p> + "God forbid that anybody should pretend to understand it," said the + implicit constable; "for his worship the Justice says it is a mile beyond + him; and he be as deep as most of them. But men may believe, though they + do not understand; and that is what the Romanists say themselves. But this + I am sure of, it makes a rare stirring time for justices, and witnesses, + and constables.—So here's to your health again, gentlemen, in a cup + of neat canary." + </p> + <p> + "Come, come, John Whitecraft," said the wife, "do not you demean yourself + by naming witnesses along with justices and constables. All the world + knows how they come by their money." + </p> + <p> + "Ay, but all the world knows that they <i>do</i> come by it, dame; and + that is a great comfort. They rustle in their canonical silks, and swagger + in their buff and scarlet, who but they?—Ay, ay, the cursed fox + thrives—and not so cursed neither. Is there not Doctor Titus Oates, + the saviour of the nation—does he not live at Whitehall, and eat off + plate, and have a pension of thousands a year, for what I know? and is he + not to be Bishop of Litchfield, so soon as Dr. Doddrum dies?" + </p> + <p> + "Then I hope Dr. Doddrum's reverence will live these twenty years; and I + dare say I am the first that ever wished such a wish," said the hostess. + "I do not understand these doings, not I; and if a hundred Jesuits came to + hold a consult at my house, as they did at the White Horse Tavern, I + should think it quite out of the line of business to bear witness against + them, provided they drank well, and paid their score." + </p> + <p> + "Very true, dame," said her elder guest; "that is what I call keeping a + good publican conscience; and so I will pay my score presently, and be + jogging on my way." + </p> + <p> + Peveril, on his part, also demanded a reckoning, and discharged it so + liberally, that the miller flourished his hat as he bowed, and the hostess + courtesied down to the ground. + </p> + <p> + The horses of both guests were brought forth; and they mounted, in order + to depart in company. The host and hostess stood in the doorway, to see + them depart. The landlord proffered a stirrup-cup to the elder guest, + while the landlady offered Peveril a glass from her own peculiar bottle. + For this purpose, she mounted on the horse-block, with flask and glass in + hand; so that it was easy for the departing guest, although on horse-back, + to return the courtesy in the most approved manner, namely, by throwing + his arm over his landlady's shoulder, and saluting her at parting. + </p> + <p> + Dame Whitecraft did not decline this familiarity; for there is no room for + traversing upon a horse-block, and the hands which might have served her + for resistance, were occupied with glass and bottle—matters too + precious to be thrown away in such a struggle. Apparently, however, she + had something else in her head; for as, after a brief affectation of + reluctance, she permitted Peveril's face to approach hers, she whispered + in his ear, "Beware of trepans!"—an awful intimation, which, in + those days of distrust, suspicion, and treachery, was as effectual in + interdicting free and social intercourse, as the advertisement of + "man-traps and spring-guns," to protect an orchard. Pressing her hand, in + intimation that he comprehended her hint, she shook his warmly in return, + and bade God speed him. There was a cloud on John Whitecraft's brow; nor + did his final farewell sound half so cordial as that which had been spoken + within doors. But then Peveril reflected, that the same guest is not + always equally acceptable to landlord and landlady; and unconscious of + having done anything to excite the miller's displeasure, he pursued his + journey without thinking farther of the matter. + </p> + <p> + Julian was a little surprised, and not altogether pleased, to find that + his new acquaintance held the same road with him. He had many reasons for + wishing to travel alone; and the hostess's caution still rung in his ears. + If this man, possessed of so much shrewdness as his countenance and + conversation intimated, versatile, as he had occasion to remark, and + disguised beneath his condition, should prove, as was likely, to be a + concealed Jesuit or seminary-priest, travelling upon their great task of + the conversion of England, and rooting out of the Northern heresy,—a + more dangerous companion, for a person in his own circumstances, could + hardly be imagined; since keeping society with him might seem to authorise + whatever reports had been spread concerning the attachment of his family + to the Catholic cause. At the same time, it was very difficult, without + actual rudeness, to shake off the company of one who seemed so determined, + whether spoken to or not, to remain alongside of him. + </p> + <p> + Peveril tried the experiment of riding slow; but his companion, determined + not to drop him, slackened his pace, so as to keep close by him. Julian + then spurred his horse to a full trot; and was soon satisfied, that the + stranger, notwithstanding the meanness of his appearance, was so much + better mounted than himself, as to render vain any thought of outriding + him. He pulled up his horse to a more reasonable pace, therefore, in a + sort of despair. Upon his doing so, his companion, who had been hitherto + silent, observed, that Peveril was not so well qualified to try speed upon + the road, as he would have been had he abode by his first bargain of + horse-flesh that morning. + </p> + <p> + Peveril assented dryly, but observed, that the animal would serve his + immediate purpose, though he feared it would render him indifferent + company for a person better mounted. + </p> + <p> + "By no means," answered his civil companion; "I am one of those who have + travelled so much, as to be accustomed to make my journey at any rate of + motion which may be most agreeable to my company." + </p> + <p> + Peveril made no reply to this polite intimation, being too sincere to + tender the thanks which, in courtesy, were the proper answer.—A + second pause ensued, which was broken by Julian asking the stranger + whether their roads were likely to lie long together in the same + direction. + </p> + <p> + "I cannot tell," said the stranger, smiling, "unless I knew which way you + were travelling." + </p> + <p> + "I am uncertain how far I shall go to-night," said Julian, willingly + misunderstanding the purport of the reply. + </p> + <p> + "And so am I," replied the stranger; "but though my horse goes better than + yours, I think it will be wise to spare him; and in case our road + continues to lie the same way, we are likely to sup, as we have dined + together." + </p> + <p> + Julian made no answer whatever to this round intimation, but continued to + ride on, turning, in his own mind, whether it would not be wisest to come + to a distinct understanding with his pertinacious attendant, and to + explain, in so many words, that it was his pleasure to travel alone. But, + besides that the sort of acquaintance which they had formed during dinner, + rendered him unwilling to be directly uncivil towards a person of + gentleman-like manners, he had also to consider that he might very + possibly be mistaken in this man's character and purpose; in which case, + the cynically refusing the society of a sound Protestant, would afford as + pregnant matter of suspicion, as travelling in company with a disguised + Jesuit. + </p> + <p> + After brief reflection, therefore, he resolved to endure the encumbrance + of the stranger's society, until a fair opportunity should occur to rid + himself of it; and, in the meantime, to act with as much caution as he + possibly could, in any communication that might take place between them; + for Dame Whitecraft's parting caution still rang anxiously in his ears, + and the consequences of his own arrest upon suspicion, must deprive him of + every opportunity of serving his father, or the countess, or Major + Bridgenorth, upon whose interest, also, he had promised himself to keep an + eye. + </p> + <p> + While he revolved these things in his mind, they had journeyed several + miles without speaking; and now entered upon a more waste country, and + worse roads, than they had hitherto found, being, in fact, approaching the + more hilly district of Derbyshire. In travelling on a very stony and + uneven lane, Julian's horse repeatedly stumbled; and, had he not been + supported by the rider's judicious use of the bridle, must at length + certainly have fallen under him. + </p> + <p> + "These are times which crave wary riding, sir," said his companion; "and + by your seat in the saddle, and your hand on the rein, you seem to + understand it to be so." + </p> + <p> + "I have been long a horseman, sir," answered Peveril. + </p> + <p> + "And long a traveller, too, sir, I should suppose; since by the great + caution you observe, you seem to think the human tongue requires a curb, + as well as the horse's jaws." + </p> + <p> + "Wiser men than I have been of opinion," answered Peveril, "that it were a + part of prudence to be silent, when men have little or nothing to say." + </p> + <p> + "I cannot approve of their opinion," answered the stranger. "All knowledge + is gained by communication, either with the dead, through books, or, more + pleasingly, through the conversation of the living. The <i>deaf and dumb</i>, + alone, are excluded from improvement; and surely their situation is not so + enviable that we should imitate them." + </p> + <p> + At this illustration, which awakened a startling echo in Peveril's bosom, + the young man looked hard at his companion; but in the composed + countenance, and calm blue eye, he read no consciousness of a farther + meaning than the words immediately and directly implied. He paused a + moment, and then answered, "You seem to be a person, sir, of shrewd + apprehension; and I should have thought it might have occurred to you, + that in the present suspicious times, men may, without censure, avoid + communication with strangers. You know not me; and to me you are totally + unknown. There is not room for much discourse between us, without + trespassing on the general topics of the day, which carry in them seeds of + quarrel between friends, much more betwixt strangers. At any other time, + the society of an intelligent companion would have been most acceptable + upon my solitary ride; but at present——" + </p> + <p> + "At present!" said the other, interrupting him. "You are like the old + Romans, who held that <i>hostis</i> meant both a stranger and an enemy. I + will therefore be no longer a stranger. My name is Ganlesse—by + profession I am a Roman Catholic priest—I am travelling here in + dread of my life—and I am very glad to have you for a companion." + </p> + <p> + "I thank you for the information with all my heart," said Peveril; "and to + avail myself of it to the uttermost, I must beg you to ride forward, or + lag behind, or take a side-path, at your own pleasure; for as I am no + Catholic, and travel upon business of high concernment, I am exposed both + to risk and delay, and even to danger, by keeping such suspicious company. + And so, Master Ganlesse, keep your own pace, and I will keep the contrary; + for I beg leave to forbear your company." + </p> + <p> + As Peveril spoke thus, he pulled up his horse, and made a full stop. + </p> + <p> + The stranger burst out a-laughing. "What!" he said, "you forbear my + company for a trifle of danger? Saint Anthony! How the warm blood of the + Cavaliers is chilled in the young men of the present day! This young + gallant, now, has a father, I warrant, who has endured as many adventures + for hunting priests, as a knight-errant for distressed damsels." + </p> + <p> + "This raillery avails nothing, sir," said Peveril. "I must request you + will keep your own way." + </p> + <p> + "My way is yours," said the pertinacious Master Ganlesse, as he called + himself; "and we will both travel the safer, that we journey in company. I + have the receipt of fern-seed, man, and walk invisible. Besides, you would + not have me quit you in this lane, where there is no turn to right or + left?" + </p> + <p> + Peveril moved on, desirous to avoid open violence—for which the + indifferent tone of the traveller, indeed, afforded no apt pretext—yet + highly disliking his company, and determined to take the first opportunity + to rid himself of it. + </p> + <p> + The stranger proceeded at the same pace with him, keeping cautiously on + his bridle hand, as if to secure that advantage in case of a struggle. But + his language did not intimate the least apprehension. "You do me wrong," + he said to Peveril, "and you equally wrong yourself. You are uncertain + where to lodge to-night—trust to my guidance. Here is an ancient + hall, within four miles, with an old knightly Pantaloon for its lord—an + all-be-ruffed Dame Barbara for the lady gay—a Jesuit, in a butler's + habit, to say grace—an old tale of Edgehill and Worster fights to + relish a cold venison pasty, and a flask of claret mantled with cobwebs—a + bed for you in the priest's hiding-hole—and, for aught I know, + pretty Mistress Betty, the dairy-maid, to make it ready." + </p> + <p> + "This has no charms for me, sir," said Peveril, who, in spite of himself, + could not but be amused with the ready sketch which the stranger gave of + many an old mansion in Cheshire and Derbyshire, where the owners retained + the ancient faith of Rome. + </p> + <p> + "Well, I see I cannot charm you in this way," continued his companion; "I + must strike another key. I am no longer Ganlesse, the seminary priest, but + (changing his tone, and snuffling in the nose) Simon Canter, a poor + preacher of the Word, who travels this way to call sinners to repentance; + and to strengthen, and to edify, and to fructify among the scattered + remnant who hold fast the truth.—What say you to this, sir?" + </p> + <p> + "I admire your versatility, sir, and could be entertained with it at + another time. At present sincerity is more in request." + </p> + <p> + "Sincerity!" said the stranger;—"a child's whistle, with but two + notes in it—yea, yea, and nay, nay. Why, man, the very Quakers have + renounced it, and have got in its stead a gallant recorder, called + Hypocrisy, that is somewhat like Sincerity in form, but of much greater + compass, and combines the whole gamut. Come, be ruled—be a disciple + of Simon Canter for the evening, and we will leave the old tumble-down + castle of the knight aforesaid, on the left hand, for a new brick-built + mansion, erected by an eminent salt-boiler from Namptwich, who expects the + said Simon to make a strong spiritual pickle for the preservation of a + soul somewhat corrupted by the evil communications of this wicked world. + What say you? He has two daughters—brighter eyes never beamed under + a pinched hood; and for myself, I think there is more fire in those who + live only to love and to devotion, than in your court beauties, whose + hearts are running on twenty follies besides. You know not the pleasure of + being conscience-keeper to a pretty precisian, who in one breath repeats + her foibles, and in the next confesses her passion. Perhaps, though, you + may have known such in your day? Come, sir, it grows too dark to see your + blushes; but I am sure they are burning on your cheek." + </p> + <p> + "You take great freedom, sir," said Peveril, as they now approached the + end of the lane, where it opened on a broad common; "and you seem rather + to count more on my forbearance, than you have room to do with safety. We + are now nearly free of the lane which has made us companions for this late + half hour. To avoid your farther company, I will take the turn to the + left, upon that common; and if you follow me, it shall be at your peril. + Observe, I am well armed; and you will fight at odds." + </p> + <p> + "Not at odds," returned the provoking stranger, "while I have my brown + jennet, with which I can ride round and round you at pleasure; and this + text, of a handful in length (showing a pistol which he drew from his + bosom), which discharges very convincing doctrine on the pressure of a + forefinger, and is apt to equalise all odds, as you call them, of youth + and strength. Let there be no strife between us, however—the moor + lies before us—choose your path on it—I take the other." + </p> + <p> + "I wish you good night, sir," said Peveril to the stranger. "I ask your + forgiveness, if I have misconstrued you in anything; but the times are + perilous, and a man's life may depend on the society in which he travels." + </p> + <p> + "True," said the stranger; "but in your case, the danger is already + undergone, and you should seek to counteract it. You have travelled in my + company long enough to devise a handsome branch of the Popish Plot. How + will you look, when you see come forth, in comely folio form, The + Narrative of Simon Canter, otherwise called Richard Ganlesse, concerning + the horrid Popish Conspiracy for the Murder of the King, and Massacre of + all Protestants, as given on oath to the Honourable House of Commons; + setting forth, how far Julian Peveril, younger of Martindale Castle, is + concerned in carrying on the same——" + </p> + <p> + "How, sir? What mean you?" said Peveril, much startled. + </p> + <p> + "Nay, sir," replied his companion, "do not interrupt my title-page. Now + that Oates and Bedloe have drawn the great prizes, the subordinate + discoverers get little but by the sale of their Narrative; and Janeway, + Newman, Simmons, and every bookseller of them, will tell you that the + title is half the narrative. Mine shall therefore set forth the various + schemes you have communicated to me, of landing ten thousand soldiers from + the Isle of Man upon the coast of Lancashire; and marching into Wales, to + join the ten thousand pilgrims who are to be shipped from Spain; and so + completing the destruction of the Protestant religion, and of the devoted + city of London. Truly, I think such a Narrative, well spiced with a few + horrors, and published <i>cum privilegio parliamenti</i>, might, though + the market be somewhat overstocked, be still worth some twenty or thirty + pieces." + </p> + <p> + "You seem to know me, sir," said Peveril; "and if so, I think I may fairly + ask you your purpose in thus bearing me company, and the meaning of all + this rhapsody. If it be mere banter, I can endure it within proper limit; + although it is uncivil on the part of a stranger. If you have any farther + purpose, speak it out; I am not to be trifled with." + </p> + <p> + "Good, now," said the stranger, laughing, "into what an unprofitable chafe + you have put yourself! An Italian <i>fuoruscito</i>, when he desires a + parley with you, takes aim from behind a wall, with his long gun, and + prefaces his conference with <i>Posso tirare</i>. So does your man-of-war + fire a gun across the bows of a Hansmogan Indiaman, just to bring her to; + and so do I show Master Julian Peveril, that, if I were one of the + honourable society of witnesses and informers, with whom his imagination + has associated me for these two hours past, he is as much within my danger + now, as what he is ever likely to be." Then, suddenly changing his tone to + serious, which was in general ironical, he added, "Young man, when the + pestilence is diffused through the air of a city, it is in vain men would + avoid the disease, by seeking solitude, and shunning the company of their + fellow-sufferers." + </p> + <p> + "In what, then, consists their safety?" said Peveril, willing to + ascertain, if possible, the drift of his companion's purpose. + </p> + <p> + "In following the counsels of wise physicians;" such was the stranger's + answer. + </p> + <p> + "And as such," said Peveril, "you offer me your advice?" + </p> + <p> + "Pardon me, young man," said the stranger haughtily, "I see no reason I + should do so.—I am not," he added, in his former tone, "your fee'd + physician—I offer no advice—I only say it would be wise that + you sought it." + </p> + <p> + "And from whom, or where, can I obtain it?" said Peveril. "I wander in + this country like one in a dream; so much a few months have changed it. + Men who formerly occupied themselves with their own affairs, are now + swallowed up in matters of state policy; and those tremble under the + apprehension of some strange and sudden convulsion of empire, who were + formerly only occupied by the fear of going to bed supperless. And to sum + up the matter, I meet a stranger apparently well acquainted with my name + and concerns, who first attaches himself to me, whether I will or no; and + then refuses me an explanation of his business, while he menaces me with + the strangest accusations." + </p> + <p> + "Had I meant such infamy," said the stranger, "believe me, I had not given + you the thread of my intrigue. But be wise, and come one with me. There + is, hard by, a small inn, where, if you can take a stranger's warrant for + it, we shall sleep in perfect security." + </p> + <p> + "Yet, you yourself," said Peveril, "but now were anxious to avoid + observation; and in that case, how can you protect me?" + </p> + <p> + "Pshaw! I did but silence that tattling landlady, in the way in which such + people are most readily hushed; and for Topham, and his brace of night + owls, they must hawk at other and lesser game than I should prove." + </p> + <p> + Peveril could not help admiring the easy and confident indifference with + which the stranger seemed to assume a superiority to all the circumstances + of danger around him; and after hastily considering the matter with + himself, came to the resolution to keep company with him for this night at + least; and to learn, if possible, who he really was, and to what party in + the estate he was attached. The boldness and freedom of his talk seemed + almost inconsistent with his following the perilous, though at that time + the gainful trade of an informer. No doubt, such persons assumed every + appearance which could insinuate them into the confidence of their + destined victims; but Julian thought he discovered in this man's manner, a + wild and reckless frankness, which he could not but connect with the idea + of sincerity in the present case. He therefore answered, after a moment's + recollection, "I embrace your proposal, sir; although, by doing so, I am + reposing a sudden, and perhaps an unwary, confidence." + </p> + <p> + "And what am I, then, reposing in you?" said the stranger. "Is not our + confidence mutual?" + </p> + <p> + "No; much the contrary. I know nothing of you whatever—you have + named me; and, knowing me to be Julian Peveril, know you may travel with + me in perfect security." + </p> + <p> + "The devil I do!" answered his companion. "I travel in the same security + as with a lighted petard, which I may expect to explode every moment. Are + you not the son of Peveril of the Peak, with whose name Prelacy and Popery + are so closely allied, that no old woman of either sex in Derbyshire + concludes her prayer without a petition to be freed from all three? And do + you not come from the Popish Countess of Derby, bringing, for aught I + know, a whole army of Manxmen in your pocket, with full complement of + arms, ammunition, baggage, and a train of field artillery?" + </p> + <p> + "It is not very likely I should be so poorly mounted," said Julian, + laughing, "if I had such a weight to carry. But lead on, sir. I see I must + wait for your confidence, till you think proper to confer it; for you are + already so well acquainted with my affairs, that I have nothing to offer + you in exchange for it." + </p> + <p> + "<i>Allons</i>, then," said his companion; "give your horse the spur, and + raise the curb rein, lest he measure the ground with his nose instead of + his paces. We are not now more than a furlong or two from the place of + entertainment." + </p> + <p> + They mended their pace accordingly, and soon arrived at the small solitary + inn which the traveller had mentioned. When its light began to twinkle + before them, the stranger, as if recollecting something he had forgotten, + "By the way, you must have a name to pass by; for it may be ill travelling + under your own, as the fellow who keeps this house is an old Cromwellian. + What will you call yourself?—My name is—for the present—Ganlesse." + </p> + <p> + "There is no occasion to assume a name at all," answered Julian. "I do not + incline to use a borrowed one, especially as I may meet with some one who + knows my own." + </p> + <p> + "I will call you Julian, then," said Master Ganlesse; "for Peveril will + smell, in the nostrils of mine host, of idolatry, conspiracy, Smithfield + faggots, fish on Fridays, the murder of Sir Edmondsbury Godfrey, and the + fire of purgatory." + </p> + <p> + As he spoke thus, they alighted under the great broad-branched oak tree, + that served to canopy the ale-bench, which, at an earlier hour, had + groaned under the weight of a frequent conclave of rustic politicians. + Ganlesse, as he dismounted, whistled in a particularly shrill note, and + was answered from within the house. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0022" id="link2HCH0022"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXII + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + He was a fellow in a peasant's garb; + Yet one could censure you a woodcock's carving. + Like any courtier at the ordinary. + —THE ORDINARY. +</pre> + <p> + The person who appeared at the door of the little inn to receive Ganlesse, + as we mentioned in our last chapter, sung, as he came forward, this scrap + of an old ballad,— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "Good even to you, Diccon; + And how have you sped; + Bring you the bonny bride + To banquet and bed?" +</pre> + <p> + To which Ganlesse answered, in the same tone and tune,— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "Content thee, kind Robin; + He need little care, + Who brings home a fat buck + Instead of a hare." +</pre> + <p> + "You have missed your blow, then?" said the other, in reply. + </p> + <p> + "I tell you I have not," answered Ganlesse; "but you will think of nought + but your own thriving occupation—May the plague that belongs to it + stick to it! though it hath been the making of thee." + </p> + <p> + "A man must live, Diccon Ganlesse," said the other. + </p> + <p> + "Well, well," said Ganlesse, "bid my friend welcome, for my sake. Hast + thou got any supper?" + </p> + <p> + "Reeking like a sacrifice—Chaubert has done his best. That fellow is + a treasure! give him a farthing candle, and he will cook a good supper out + of it.—Come in, sir. My friend's friend is welcome, as we say in my + country." + </p> + <p> + "We must have our horses looked to first," said Peveril, who began to be + considerably uncertain about the character of his companions—"that + done, I am for you." + </p> + <p> + Ganlesse gave a second whistle; a groom appeared, who took charge of both + their horses, and they themselves entered the inn. + </p> + <p> + The ordinary room of a poor inn seemed to have undergone some alterations, + to render it fit for company of a higher description. There were a + beaufet, a couch, and one or two other pieces of furniture, of a style + inconsistent with the appearance of the place. The tablecloth, which was + already laid, was of the finest damask; and the spoons, forks, &c., + were of silver. Peveril looked at this apparatus with some surprise; and + again turning his eyes attentively upon his travelling companion, + Ganlesse, he could not help discovering (by the aid of imagination, + perhaps), that though insignificant in person, plain in features, and + dressed like one in indigence, there lurked still about his person and + manners, that indefinable ease of manner which belongs only to men of + birth and quality, or to those who are in the constant habit of + frequenting the best company. His companion, whom he called Will Smith, + although tall and rather good-looking, besides being much better dressed, + had not, nevertheless, exactly the same ease of demeanour; and was obliged + to make up for the want, by an additional proportion of assurance. Who + these two persons could be, Peveril could not attempt even to form a + guess. There was nothing for it but to watch their manner and + conversation. + </p> + <p> + After speaking a moment in whispers, Smith said to his companion, "We must + go look after our nags for ten minutes, and allow Chaubert to do his + office." + </p> + <p> + "Will not he appear, and minister before us, then?" said Ganlesse. + </p> + <p> + "What! he?—he shift a trencher—he hand a cup?—No, you + forget whom you speak of. Such an order were enough to make him fall on + his own sword—he is already on the borders of despair, because no + craw-fish are to be had." + </p> + <p> + "Alack-a day!" replied Ganlesse. "Heaven forbid I should add to such a + calamity! To stable, then, and see we how our steeds eat their provender, + while ours is getting ready." + </p> + <p> + They adjourned to the stable accordingly, which, though a poor one, had + been hastily supplied with whatever was necessary for the accommodation of + four excellent horses; one of which, that from which Ganlesse was just + dismounted, the groom we have mentioned was cleaning and dressing by the + light of a huge wax-candle. + </p> + <p> + "I am still so far Catholic," said Ganlesse, laughing, as he saw that + Peveril noticed this piece of extravagance. "My horse is my saint, and I + dedicate a candle to him." + </p> + <p> + "Without asking so great a favour for mine, which I see standing behind + yonder old hen-coop," replied Peveril, "I will at least relieve him of his + saddle and bridle." + </p> + <p> + "Leave him to the lad of the inn," said Smith; "he is not worthy of any + other person's handling; and I promise you, if you slip a single buckle, + you will so flavour of that stable duty, that you might as well eat + roast-beef as ragouts, for any relish you will have of them." + </p> + <p> + "I love roast-beef as well as ragouts, at any time," said Peveril, + adjusting himself to a task which every young man should know how to + perform when need is; "and my horse, though it be but a sorry jade, will + champ better on hay and corn, than on an iron bit." + </p> + <p> + While he was unsaddling his horse, and shaking down some litter for the + poor wearied animal, he heard Smith observe to Ganlesse,—"By my + faith, Dick, thou hast fallen into poor Slender's blunder; missed Anne + Page, and brought us a great lubberly post-master's boy." + </p> + <p> + "Hush, he will hear thee," answered Ganlesse; "there are reasons for all + things—it is well as it is. But, prithee, tell thy fellow to help + the youngster." + </p> + <p> + "What!" replied Smith, "d'ye think I am mad?—Ask Tom Beacon—Tom + of Newmarket—Tom of ten thousand, to touch such a four-legged brute + as that?—Why, he would turn me away on the spot—discard me, + i'faith. It was all he would do to take in hand your own, my good friend; + and if you consider him not the better, you are like to stand groom to him + yourself to-morrow." + </p> + <p> + "Well, Will," answered Ganlesse, "I will say that for thee, thou hast a + set of the most useless, scoundrelly, insolent vermin about thee, that + ever ate up a poor gentleman's revenues." + </p> + <p> + "Useless? I deny it," replied Smith. "Every one of my fellows does + something or other so exquisitely, that it were sin to make him do + anything else—it is your jacks-of-all-trades who are masters of + none.—But hark to Chaubert's signal. The coxcomb is twangling it on + the lute, to the tune of <i>Eveillez-vous, belle endormie</i>.—Come, + Master What d'ye call (addressing Peveril),—get ye some water, and + wash this filthy witness from your hand, as Betterton says in the play; + for Chaubert's cookery is like Friar Bacon's Head—time is—time + was—time will soon be no more." + </p> + <p> + So saying, and scarce allowing Julian time to dip his hands in a bucket, + and dry them on a horse-cloth, he hurried him from the stable back to the + supper-chamber. + </p> + <p> + Here all was prepared for their meal, with an epicurean delicacy, which + rather belonged to the saloon of a palace, than the cabin in which it was + displayed. Four dishes of silver, with covers of the same metal, smoked on + the table; and three seats were placed for the company. Beside the lower + end of the board, was a small side-table, to answer the purpose of what is + now called a dumb waiter; on which several flasks reared their tall, + stately, and swan-like crests, above glasses and rummers. Clean covers + were also placed within reach; and a small travelling-case of morocco, + hooped with silver, displayed a number of bottles, containing the most + approved sauces that culinary ingenuity had then invented. + </p> + <p> + Smith, who occupied the lower seat, and seemed to act as president of the + feast, motioned the two travellers to take their places and begin. "I + would not stay a grace-time," he said, "to save a whole nation from + perdition. We could bring no chauffettes with any convenience; and even + Chaubert is nothing, unless his dishes are tasted in the very moment of + projection. Come, uncover, and let us see what he has done for us.—Hum!—ha!—ay—squab-pigeons—wildfowl—young + chickens—venison cutlets—and a space in the centre, wet, alas! + by a gentle tear from Chaubert's eye, where should have been the <i>soupe + aux écrevisses</i>. The zeal of that poor fellow is ill repaid by his + paltry ten louis per month." + </p> + <p> + "A mere trifle," said Ganlesse; "but, like yourself, Will, he serves a + generous master." + </p> + <p> + The repast now commenced; and Julian, though he had seen his young friend + the Earl of Derby, and other gallants, affect a considerable degree of + interest and skill in the science of the kitchen, and was not himself + either an enemy or a stranger to the pleasures of a good table, found + that, on the present occasion, he was a mere novice. Both his companions, + but Smith in especial, seemed to consider that they were now engaged in + the only true business of life; and weighed all its minutiæ with a + proportional degree of accuracy. To carve the morsel in the most delicate + manner—and to apportion the proper seasoning with the accuracy of + the chemist,—to be aware, exactly, of the order in which one dish + should succeed another, and to do plentiful justice to all—was a + minuteness of science to which Julian had hitherto been a stranger. Smith + accordingly treated him as a mere novice in epicurism, cautioning him to + eat his soup before the bouilli, and to forget the Manx custom of bolting + the boiled meat before the broth, as if Cutlar MacCulloch and all his + whingers were at the door. Peveril took the hint in good part, and the + entertainment proceeded with animation. + </p> + <p> + At length Ganlesse paused, and declared the supper exquisite. "But, my + friend Smith," he added, "are your wines curious? When you brought all + that trash of plates and trumpery into Derbyshire, I hope you did not + leave us at the mercy of the strong ale of the shire, as thick and muddy + as the squires who drink it?" + </p> + <p> + "Did I not know that <i>you</i> were to meet me, Dick Ganlesse?" answered + their host. "And can you suspect me of such an omission? It is true, you + must make champagne and claret serve, for my burgundy would not bear + travelling. But if you have a fancy for sherry, or Vin de Cahors, I have a + notion Chaubert and Tom Beacon have brought some for their own drinking." + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps the gentlemen would not care to impart," said Ganlesse. + </p> + <p> + "Oh, fie!—anything in the way of civility," replied Smith. "They + are, in truth, the best-natured lads alive, when treated respectfully; so + that if you would prefer——" + </p> + <p> + "By no means," said Ganlesse—"a glass of champagne will serve in a + scarcity of better." + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "The cork shall start obsequious to my thumb." +</pre> + <p> + said Smith; and as he spoke, he untwisted the wire, and the cork struck + the roof of the cabin. Each guest took a large rummer glass of the + sparkling beverage, which Peveril had judgment and experience enough to + pronounce exquisite. + </p> + <p> + "Give me your hand, sir," said Smith; "it is the first word of sense you + have spoken this evening." + </p> + <p> + "Wisdom, sir," replied Peveril, "is like the best ware in the pedlar's + pack, which he never produces till he knows his customer." + </p> + <p> + "Sharp as mustard," returned the <i>bon vivant</i>; "but be wise, most + noble pedlar, and take another rummer of this same flask, which you see I + have held in an oblique position for your service—not permitting it + to retrograde to the perpendicular. Nay, take it off before the bubble + bursts on the rim, and the zest is gone." + </p> + <p> + "You do me honour, sir," said Peveril, taking the second glass. "I wish + you a better office than that of my cup-bearer." + </p> + <p> + "You cannot wish Will Smith one more congenial to his nature," said + Ganlesse. "Others have a selfish delight in the objects of sense, Will + thrives, and is happy by imparting them to his friends." + </p> + <p> + "Better help men to pleasures than to pains, Master Ganlesse," answered + Smith, somewhat angrily. + </p> + <p> + "Nay, wrath thee not, Will," said Ganlesse; "and speak no words in haste, + lest you may have cause to repent at leisure. Do I blame thy social + concern for the pleasures of others? Why, man, thou dost therein most + philosophically multiply thine own. A man has but one throat, and can but + eat, with his best efforts, some five or six times a day; but thou dinest + with every friend that cuts a capon, and art quaffing wine in other men's + gullets, from morning to night—<i>et sic de cæteris</i>." + </p> + <p> + "Friend Ganlesse," returned Smith, "I prithee beware—thou knowest I + can cut gullets as well as tickle them." + </p> + <p> + "Ay, Will," answered Ganlesse carelessly; "I think I have seen thee wave + thy whinyard at the throat of a Hogan-Mogan—a Netherlandish weasand, + which expanded only on thy natural and mortal objects of aversion,—Dutch + cheese, rye-bread, pickled herring, onion, and Geneva." + </p> + <p> + "For pity's sake, forbear the description!" said Smith; "thy words + overpower the perfumes, and flavour the apartment like a dish of + salmagundi!" + </p> + <p> + "But for an epiglottis like mine," continued Ganlesse, "down which the + most delicate morsels are washed by such claret as thou art now pouring + out, thou couldst not, in thy bitterest mood, wish a worse fate than to be + necklaced somewhat tight by a pair of white arms." + </p> + <p> + "By a tenpenny cord," answered Smith; "but not till you were dead; that + thereafter you be presently embowelled, you being yet alive; that your + head be then severed from your body, and your body divided into quarters, + to be disposed of at his Majesty's pleasure.—How like you that, + Master Richard Ganlesse?" + </p> + <p> + "E'en as you like the thoughts of dining on bran-bread and milk-porridge—an + extremity which you trust never to be reduced to. But all this shall not + prevent me from pledging you in a cup of sound claret." + </p> + <p> + As the claret circulated, the glee of the company increased; and Smith + placing the dishes which had been made use of upon the side-table, stamped + with his foot on the floor, and the table sinking down a trap, again rose, + loaded with olives, sliced neat's tongue, caviare, and other provocatives + for the circulation of the bottle. + </p> + <p> + "Why, Will," said Ganlesse, "thou art a more complete mechanist than I + suspected; thou hast brought thy scene-shifting inventions to Derbyshire + in marvellously short time." + </p> + <p> + "A rope and pullies can be easily come by," answered Will; "and with a saw + and a plane, I can manage that business in half a day. I love the knack of + clean and secret conveyance—thou knowest it was the foundation of my + fortunes." + </p> + <p> + "It may be the wreck of them too, Will," replied his friend. + </p> + <p> + "True, Diccon," answered Will; "but, <i>dum vivimus, vivamus</i>,—that + is my motto; and therewith I present you a brimmer to the health of the + fair lady you wot of." + </p> + <p> + "Let it come, Will," replied his friend; and the flask circulated briskly + from hand to hand. + </p> + <p> + Julian did not think it prudent to seem a check on their festivity, as he + hoped in its progress something might occur to enable him to judge of the + character and purposes of his companions. But he watched them in vain. + Their conversation was animated and lively, and often bore reference to + the literature of the period, in which the elder seemed particularly well + skilled. They also talked freely of the Court, and of that numerous class + of gallants who were then described as "men of wit and pleasure about + town;" and to which it seemed probable they themselves appertained. + </p> + <p> + At length the universal topic of the Popish Plot was started; upon which + Ganlesse and Smith seemed to entertain the most opposite opinions. + Ganlesse, if he did not maintain the authority of Oates in its utmost + extent, contended, that at least it was confirmed in a great measure by + the murder of Sir Edmondsbury Godfrey, and the letters written by Coleman + to the confessor of the French King. + </p> + <p> + With much more noise, and less power of reasoning, Will Smith hesitated + not to ridicule and run down the whole discovery, as one of the wildest + and most causeless alarms which had ever been sounded in the ears of a + credulous public. "I shall never forget," he said, "Sir Godfrey's most + original funeral. Two bouncing parsons, well armed with sword and pistol, + mounted the pulpit, to secure the third fellow who preached from being + murdered in the face of the congregation. Three parsons in one pulpit—three + suns in one hemisphere—no wonder men stood aghast at such a + prodigy." + </p> + <p> + "What then, Will," answered his companion, "you are one of those who think + the good knight murdered himself, in order to give credit to the Plot?" + </p> + <p> + "By my faith, not I," said the other; "but some true blue Protestant might + do the job for him, in order to give the thing a better colour.—I + will be judged by our silent friend, whether that be not the most feasible + solution of the whole." + </p> + <p> + "I pray you, pardon me, gentlemen," said Julian; "I am but just landed in + England, and am a stranger to the particular circumstances which have + thrown the nation into such a ferment. It would be the highest degree of + assurance in me to give my opinion betwixt gentlemen who argue the matter + so ably; besides, to say truth, I confess weariness—your wine is + more potent than I expected, or I have drunk more of it than I meant to + do." + </p> + <p> + "Nay, if an hour's nap will refresh you," said the elder of the strangers, + "make no ceremony with us. Your bed—all we can offer as such—is + that old-fashioned Dutch-built sofa, as the last new phrase calls it. We + shall be early stirrers tomorrow morning." + </p> + <p> + "And that we may be so," said Smith, "I propose that we do sit up all this + night—I hate lying rough, and detest a pallet-bed. So have at + another flask, and the newest lampoon to help it out— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + 'Now a plague of their votes + Upon Papists and Plots, + And be d—d Doctor Oates. + Tol de rol.'" +</pre> + <p> + "Nay, but our Puritanic host," said Ganlesse. + </p> + <p> + "I have him in my pocket, man—his eyes, ears, nose, and tongue," + answered his boon companion, "are all in my possession." + </p> + <p> + "In that case, when you give him back his eyes and nose, I pray you keep + his ears and tongue," answered Ganlesse. "Seeing and smelling are organs + sufficient for such a knave—to hear and tell are things he should + have no manner of pretensions to." + </p> + <p> + "I grant you it were well done," answered Smith; "but it were a robbing of + the hangman and the pillory; and I am an honest fellow, who would give + Dun[*] and the devil his due. So, + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + 'All joy to great Cæsar, + Long life, love, and pleasure; + May the King live for ever, + 'Tis no matter for us, boys.'" +</pre> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +[*] Dun was the hangman of the day at Tyburn. He was successor of + Gregory Brunden, who was by many believed to be the same who + dropped the axe upon Charles I., though others were suspected of + being the actual regicide. +</pre> + <p> + While this Bacchanalian scene proceeded, Julian had wrapt himself closely + in his cloak, and stretched himself on the couch which they had shown him. + He looked towards the table he had left—the tapers seemed to become + hazy and dim as he gazed—he heard the sound of voices, but they + ceased to convey any impression to his understanding; and in a few + minutes, he was faster asleep than he had ever been in the whole course of + his life. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0023" id="link2HCH0023"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIII + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + The Gordon then his bugle blew, + And said, awa, awa; + The House of Rhodes is all on flame, + I hauld it time to ga'. + —OLD BALLAD. +</pre> + <p> + When Julian awaked the next morning, all was still and vacant in the + apartment. The rising sun, which shone through the half-closed shutters, + showed some relics of the last night's banquet, which his confused and + throbbing head assured him had been carried into a debauch. + </p> + <p> + Without being much of a boon companion, Julian, like other young men of + the time, was not in the habit of shunning wine, which was then used in + considerable quantities; and he could not help being surprised, that the + few cups he had drunk over night had produced on his frame the effects of + excess. He rose up, adjusted his dress, and sought in the apartment for + water to perform his morning ablutions, but without success. Wine there + was on the table; and beside it one stool stood, and another lay, as if + thrown down in the heedless riot of the evening. "Surely," he thought to + himself, "the wine must have been very powerful, which rendered me + insensible to the noise my companions must have made ere they finished + their carouse." + </p> + <p> + With momentary suspicion he examined his weapons, and the packet which he + had received from the Countess, and kept in a secret pocket of his upper + coat, bound close about his person. All was safe; and the very operation + reminded him of the duties which lay before him. He left the apartment + where they had supped, and went into another, wretched enough, where, in a + truckle-bed, were stretched two bodies, covered with a rug, the heads + belonging to which were amicably deposited upon the same truss of hay. The + one was the black shock-head of the groom; the other, graced with a long + thrum nightcap, showed a grizzled pate, and a grave caricatured + countenance, which the hook-nose and lantern-jaws proclaimed to belong to + the Gallic minister of good cheer, whose praises he had heard sung forth + on the preceding evening. These worthies seemed to have slumbered in the + arms of Bacchus as well as of Morpheus, for there were broken flasks on + the floor; and their deep snoring alone showed that they were alive. + </p> + <p> + Bent upon resuming his journey, as duty and expedience alike dictated, + Julian next descended the trap-stair, and essayed a door at the bottom of + the steps. It was fastened within. He called—no answer was returned. + It must be, he thought, the apartment of the revellers, now probably + sleeping as soundly as their dependants still slumbered, and as he himself + had done a few minutes before. Should he awake them?—To what + purpose? They were men with whom accident had involved him against his own + will; and situated as he was, he thought it wise to take the earliest + opportunity of breaking off from society which was suspicious, and might + be perilous. Ruminating thus, he essayed another door, which admitted him + to a bedroom, where lay another harmonious slumberer. The mean utensils, + pewter measures, empty cans and casks, with which this room was lumbered, + proclaimed it that of the host, who slept surrounded by his professional + implements of hospitality and stock-in-trade. + </p> + <p> + This discovery relieved Peveril from some delicate embarrassment which he + had formerly entertained. He put upon the table a piece of money, + sufficient, as he judged, to pay his share of the preceding night's + reckoning; not caring to be indebted for his entertainment to the + strangers, whom he was leaving without the formality of an adieu. + </p> + <p> + His conscience cleared of this gentleman-like scruple, Peveril proceeded + with a light heart, though somewhat a dizzy head, to the stable, which he + easily recognised among a few other paltry outhouses. His horse, refreshed + with rest, and perhaps not unmindful of his services the evening before, + neighed as his master entered the stable; and Peveril accepted the sound + as an omen of a prosperous journey. He paid the augury with a sieveful of + corn; and, while his palfrey profited by his attention, walked into the + fresh air to cool his heated blood, and consider what course he should + pursue in order to reach the Castle of Martindale before sunset. His + acquaintance with the country in general gave him confidence that he could + not have greatly deviated from the nearest road; and with his horse in + good condition, he conceived he might easily reach Martindale before + nightfall. + </p> + <p> + Having adjusted his route in his mind, he returned into the stable to + prepare his steed for the journey, and soon led him into the ruinous + courtyard of the inn, bridled, saddled, and ready to be mounted. But as + Peveril's hand was upon the mane, and his left foot in the stirrup, a hand + touched his cloak, and the voice of Ganlesse said, "What, Master Peveril, + is this your foreign breeding? or have you learned in France to take + French leave of your friends?" + </p> + <p> + Julian started like a guilty thing, although a moment's reflection assured + him that he was neither wrong nor in danger. "I cared not to disturb you," + he said, "although I did come as far as the door of your chamber. I + supposed your friend and you might require, after our last night's revel, + rather sleep than ceremony. I left my own bed, though a rough one, with + more reluctance than usual; and as my occasions oblige me to be an early + traveller, I thought it best to depart without leave-taking. I have left a + token for mine host on the table of his apartment." + </p> + <p> + "It was unnecessary," said Ganlesse; "the rascal is already overpaid.—But + are you not rather premature in your purpose of departing? My mind tells + me that Master Julian Peveril had better proceed with me to London, than + turn aside for any purpose whatever. You may see already that I am no + ordinary person, but a master-spirit of the time. For the cuckoo I travel + with, and whom I indulge in his prodigal follies, he also has his uses. + But you are a different cast; and I not only would serve you, but even + wish you, to be my own." + </p> + <p> + Julian gazed on this singular person when he spoke. We have already said + his figure was mean and slight, with very ordinary and unmarked features, + unless we were to distinguish the lightnings of a keen grey eye, which + corresponded in its careless and prideful glance, with the haughty + superiority which the stranger assumed in his conversation. It was not + till after a momentary pause that Julian replied, "Can you wonder, sir, + that in my circumstances—if they are indeed known to you so well as + they seem—I should decline unnecessary confidence on the affairs of + moment which have called me hither, or refuse the company of a stranger, + who assigns no reason for desiring mine?" + </p> + <p> + "Be it as you list, young man," answered Ganlesse; "only remember + hereafter, you had a fair offer—it is not every one to whom I would + have made it. If we should meet hereafter, on other, and on worse terms, + impute it to yourself and not to me." + </p> + <p> + "I understand not your threat," answered Peveril, "If a threat be indeed + implied. I have done no evil—I feel no apprehension—and I + cannot, in common sense, conceive why I should suffer for refusing my + confidence to a stranger, who seems to require that I should submit me + blindfold to his guidance." + </p> + <p> + "Farewell, then, Sir Julian of the Peak,—that may soon be," said the + stranger, removing the hand which he had as yet left carelessly on the + horse's bridle. + </p> + <p> + "How mean you by that phrase?" said Julian; "and why apply such a title to + me?" + </p> + <p> + The stranger smiled, and only answered, "Here our conference ends. The way + is before you. You will find it longer and rougher than that by which I + would have guided you." + </p> + <p> + So saying, Ganlesse turned his back and walked toward the house. On the + threshold he turned about once more, and seeing that Peveril had not yet + moved from the spot, he again smiled and beckoned to him; but Julian, + recalled by that sign to recollection, spurred his horse and set forward + on his journey. + </p> + <p> + It was not long ere his local acquaintance with the country enabled him to + regain the road to Martindale, from which he had diverged on the preceding + evening for about two miles. But the roads, or rather the paths, of this + wild country, so much satirised by their native poet, Cotton, were so + complicated in some places, so difficult to be traced in others, and so + unfit for hasty travelling in almost all, that in spite of Julian's utmost + exertions, and though he made no longer delay upon the journey than was + necessary to bait his horse at a small hamlet through which he passed at + noon, it was nightfall ere he reached an eminence, from which, an hour + sooner, the battlements of Martindale Castle would have been visible; and + where, when they were hid in night, their situation was indicated by a + light constantly maintained in a lofty tower, called the Warder's Turret; + and which domestic beacon had acquired, through all the neighbourhood, the + name of Peveril's Polestar. + </p> + <p> + This was regularly kindled at curfew toll, and supplied with as much wood + and charcoal as maintained the light till sunrise; and at no period was + the ceremonial omitted, saving during the space intervening between the + death of a Lord of the Castle and his interment. When this last event had + taken place, the nightly beacon was rekindled with some ceremony, and + continued till fate called the successor to sleep with his fathers. It is + not known from which circumstance the practice of maintaining this light + originally sprung. Tradition spoke of it doubtfully. Some thought it was + the signal of general hospitality, which, in ancient times, guided the + wandering knight, or the weary pilgrim, to rest and refreshment. Others + spoke of it as a "love-lighted watchfire," by which the provident anxiety + of a former lady of Martindale guided her husband homeward through the + terrors of a midnight storm. The less favourable construction of + unfriendly neighbours of the dissenting persuasion, ascribed the origin + and continuance of this practice to the assuming pride of the family of + Peveril, who thereby chose to intimate their ancient <i>suzerainté</i> + over the whole country, in the manner of the admiral who carries the + lantern in the poop, for the guidance of the fleet. And in the former + times, our old friend, Master Solsgrace, dealt from the pulpit many a hard + hit against Sir Geoffrey, as he that had raised his horn, and set up his + candlestick on high. Certain it is, that all the Peverils, from father to + son, had been especially attentive to the maintenance of this custom, as + something intimately connected with the dignity of their family; and in + the hands of Sir Geoffrey, the observance was not likely to be omitted. + </p> + <p> + Accordingly, the polar-star of Peveril had continued to beam more or less + brightly during all the vicissitudes of the Civil War; and glimmered, + however faintly, during the subsequent period of Sir Geoffrey's + depression. But he was often heard to say, and sometimes to swear, that + while there was a perch of woodland left to the estate, the old + beacon-grate should not lack replenishing. All this his son Julian well + knew; and therefore it was with no ordinary feelings of surprise and + anxiety, that, looking in the direction of the Castle, he perceived that + the light was not visible. He halted—rubbed his eyes—shifted + his position—and endeavoured, in vain, to persuade himself that he + had mistaken the point from which the polar-star of his house was visible, + or that some newly intervening obstacle, the growth of a plantation, + perhaps, or the erection of some building, intercepted the light of the + beacon. But a moment's reflection assured him, that from the high and free + situation which Martindale Castle bore in reference to the surrounding + country, this could not have taken place; and the inference necessarily + forced itself upon his mind, that Sir Geoffrey, his father, was either + deceased, or that the family must have been disturbed by some strange + calamity, under the pressure of which, their wonted custom and solemn + usage had been neglected. + </p> + <p> + Under the influence of undefinable apprehension, young Peveril now struck + the spurs into his jaded steed, and forcing him down the broken and steep + path, at a pace which set safety at defiance, he arrived at the village of + Martindale-Moultrassie, eagerly desirous to ascertain the cause of this + ominous eclipse. The street, through which his tired horse paced slow and + reluctantly, was now deserted and empty; and scarcely a candle twinkled + from a casement, except from the latticed window of the little inn, called + the Peveril Arms, from which a broad light shone, and several voices were + heard in rude festivity. + </p> + <p> + Before the door of this inn, the jaded palfrey, guided by the instinct or + experience which makes a hackney well acquainted with the outside of a + house of entertainment, made so sudden and determined a pause, that, + notwithstanding his haste, the rider thought it best to dismount, + expecting to be readily supplied with a fresh horse by Roger Raine, the + landlord, the ancient dependant of his family. He also wished to relive + his anxiety, by inquiring concerning the state of things at the Castle, + when he was surprised to hear, bursting from the taproom of the loyal old + host, a well-known song of the Commonwealth time, which some puritanical + wag had written in reprehension of the Cavaliers, and their dissolute + courses, and in which his father came in for a lash of the satirist. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "Ye thought in the world there was no power to tame ye, + So you tippled and drabb'd till the saints overcame ye; + 'Forsooth,' and 'Ne'er stir,' sir, have vanquish'd 'G— d—n me,' + Which nobody can deny. + + There was bluff old Sir Geoffrey loved brandy and mum well, + And to see a beer-glass turned over the thumb well; + But he fled like the wind, before Fairfax and Cromwell, + Which nobody can deny." +</pre> + <p> + Some strange revolution, Julian was aware, must have taken place, both in + the village and in the Castle, ere these sounds of unseemly insult could + have been poured forth in the very inn which was decorated with the + armorial bearings of his family; and not knowing how far it might be + advisable to intrude on these unfriendly revellers, without the power of + repelling or chastising their insolence, he led his horse to a back-door, + which as he recollected, communicated with the landlord's apartment, + having determined to make private inquiry of him concerning the state of + matters at the Castle. He knocked repeatedly, and as often called on Roger + Raine with an earnest but stifled voice. At length a female voice replied + by the usual inquiry, "Who is there?" + </p> + <p> + "It is I, Dame Raine—I, Julian Peveril—tell your husband to + come to me presently." + </p> + <p> + "Alack, and a well-a-day, Master Julian, if it be really you—you are + to know my poor goodman has gone where he can come to no one; but, + doubtless, we shall all go to him, as Matthew Chamberlain says." + </p> + <p> + "He is dead, then?" said Julian. "I am extremely sorry——" + </p> + <p> + "Dead six months and more, Master Julian; and let me tell you, it is a + long time for a lone woman, as Matt Chamberlain says." + </p> + <p> + "Well, do you or your chamberlain undo the door. I want a fresh horse; and + I want to know how things are at the Castle." + </p> + <p> + "The Castle—lack-a-day!—Chamberlain—Matthew Chamberlain—I + say, Matt!" + </p> + <p> + Matt Chamberlain apparently was at no great distance, for he presently + answered her call; and Peveril, as he stood close to the door, could hear + them whispering to each other, and distinguish in a great measure what + they said. And here it may be noticed, that Dame Raine, accustomed to + submit to the authority of old Roger, who vindicated as well the husband's + domestic prerogative, as that of the monarch in the state, had, when left + a buxom widow, been so far incommoded by the exercise of her newly + acquired independence, that she had recourse, upon all occasions, to the + advice of Matt Chamberlain; and as Matt began no longer to go slipshod, + and in a red nightcap, but wore Spanish shoes, and a high-crowned beaver + (at least of a Sunday), and moreover was called Master Matthew by his + fellow-servants, the neighbours in the village argued a speedy change of + the name of the sign-post; nay, perhaps, of the very sign itself, for + Matthew was a bit of a Puritan, and no friend to Peveril of the Peak. + </p> + <p> + "Now counsel me, an you be a man, Matt Chamberlain," said Widow Raine; + "for never stir, if here be not Master Julian's own self, and he wants a + horse, and what not, and all as if things were as they wont to be." + </p> + <p> + "Why, dame, an ye will walk by my counsel," said the Chamberlain, "e'en + shake him off—let him be jogging while his boots are green. This is + no world for folks to scald their fingers in other folks' broth." + </p> + <p> + "And that is well spoken, truly," answered Dame Raine; "but then look you, + Matt, we have eaten their bread, and, as my poor goodman used to say——" + </p> + <p> + "Nay, nay, dame, they that walk by the counsel of the dead, shall have + none of the living; and so you may do as you list; but if you will walk by + mine, drop latch, and draw bolt, and bid him seek quarters farther—that + is my counsel." + </p> + <p> + "I desire nothing of you, sirrah," said Peveril, "save but to know how Sir + Geoffrey and his lady do?" + </p> + <p> + "Lack-a-day!—lack-a-day!" in a tone of sympathy, was the only answer + he received from the landlady; and the conversation betwixt her and her + chamberlain was resumed, but in a tone too low to be overheard. + </p> + <p> + At length Matt Chamberlain spoke aloud, and with a tone of authority: "We + undo no doors at this time of night, for it is against the Justices' + orders, and might cost us our licence; and for the Castle, the road up to + it lies before you, and I think you know it as well as we do." + </p> + <p> + "And I know you," said Peveril, remounting his wearied horse, "for an + ungrateful churl, whom, on the first opportunity, I will assuredly cudgel + to a mummy." + </p> + <p> + To this menace Matthew made no reply, and Peveril presently heard him + leave the apartment, after a few earnest words betwixt him and his + mistress. + </p> + <p> + Impatient at this delay, and at the evil omen implied in these people's + conversation and deportment, Peveril, after some vain spurring of his + horse, which positively refused to move a step farther, dismounted once + more, and was about to pursue his journey on foot, notwithstanding the + extreme disadvantage under which the high riding-boots of the period laid + those who attempted to walk with such encumbrances, when he was stopped by + a gentle call from the window. + </p> + <p> + Her counsellor was no sooner gone, than the good-nature and habitual + veneration of the dame for the house of Peveril, and perhaps some fear for + her counsellor's bones, induced her to open the casement, and cry, but in + a low and timid tone, "Hist! hist! Master Julian—be you gone?" + </p> + <p> + "Not yet, dame," said Julian; "though it seems my stay is unwelcome." + </p> + <p> + "Nay, but good young master, it is because men counsel so differently; for + here was my poor old Roger Raine would have thought the chimney corner too + cold for you; and here is Matt Chamberlain thinks the cold courtyard is + warm enough." + </p> + <p> + "Never mind that, dame," said Julian; "do but only tell me what has + happened at Martindale Castle? I see the beacon is extinguished." + </p> + <p> + "Is it in troth?—ay, like enough—then good Sir Geoffrey has + gone to heaven with my old Roger Raine!" + </p> + <p> + "Sacred Heaven!" exclaimed Peveril; "when was my father taken ill?" + </p> + <p> + "Never as I knows of," said the dame; "but, about three hours since, + arrived a party at the Castle, with buff-coats and bandoleers, and one of + the Parliament's folks, like in Oliver's time. My old Roger Raine would + have shut the gates of the inn against them, but he is in the churchyard, + and Matt says it is against law; and so they came in and refreshed men and + horses, and sent for Master Bridgenorth, that is at Moultrassie Hall even + now; and so they went up to the Castle, and there was a fray, it is like, + as the old Knight was no man to take napping, as poor Roger Raine used to + say. Always the officers had the best on't; and reason there is, since + they had the law of their side, as our Matthew says. But since the + pole-star of the Castle is out, as your honour says, why, doubtless, the + old gentleman is dead." + </p> + <p> + "Gracious Heaven!—Dear dame, for love or gold, let me have a horse + to make for the Castle!" + </p> + <p> + "The Castle?" said the dame; "the Roundheads, as my poor Roger called + them, will kill you as they have killed your father! Better creep into the + woodhouse, and I will send Bett with a blanket and some supper—Or + stay—my old Dobbin stands in the little stable beside the hencoop—e'en + take him, and make the best of your way out of the country, for there is + no safety here for you. Hear what songs some of them are singing at the + tap!—so take Dobbin, and do not forget to leave your own horse + instead." + </p> + <p> + Peveril waited to hear no farther, only, that just as he turned to go off + to the stable, the compassionate female was heard to exclaim—"O + Lord! what will Matthew Chamberlain say!" but instantly added, "Let him + say what he will, I may dispose of what's my own." + </p> + <p> + With the haste of a double-fee'd hostler did Julian exchange the + equipments of his jaded brute with poor Dobbin, who stood quietly tugging + at his rackful of hay, without dreaming of the business which was that + night destined for him. Notwithstanding the darkness of the place, Julian + succeeded marvellous quickly in preparing for his journey; and leaving his + own horse to find its way to Dobbin's rack by instinct, he leaped upon his + new acquisition, and spurred him sharply against the hill, which rises + steeply from the village to the Castle. Dobbin, little accustomed to such + exertions, snorted, panted, and trotted as briskly as he could, until at + length he brought his rider before the entrance-gate of his father's + ancient seat. + </p> + <p> + The moon was now rising, but the portal was hidden from its beams, being + situated, as we have mentioned elsewhere, in a deep recess betwixt two + large flanking towers. Peveril dismounted, turned his horse loose, and + advanced to the gate, which, contrary to his expectation, he found open. + He entered the large courtyard; and could then perceive that lights yet + twinkled in the lower part of the building, although he had not before + observed them, owing to the height of the outward walls. The main door, or + great hall-gate, as it was called, was, since the partially decayed state + of the family, seldom opened, save on occasions of particular ceremony. A + smaller postern door served the purpose of ordinary entrance; and to that + Julian now repaired. This also was open—a circumstance which would + of itself have alarmed him, had he not already had so many causes for + apprehension. His heart sunk within him as he turned to the left, through + a small outward hall, towards the great parlour, which the family usually + occupied as a sitting apartment; and his alarm became still greater, when, + on a nearer approach, he heard proceeding from thence the murmur of + several voices. He threw the door of the apartment wide; and the sight + which was thus displayed, warranted all the evil bodings which he had + entertained. + </p> + <p> + In front of him stood the old Knight, whose arms were strongly secured, + over the elbows, by a leathern belt drawn tight round them, and made fast + behind; two ruffianly-looking men, apparently his guards, had hold of his + doublet. The scabbard-less sword which lay on the floor, and the empty + sheath which hung by Sir Geoffrey's side, showed the stout old Cavalier + had not been reduced to this state of bondage without an attempt at + resistance. Two or three persons, having their backs turned towards + Julian, sat round a table, and appeared engaged in writing—the + voices which he had heard were theirs, as they murmured to each other. + Lady Peveril—the emblem of death, so pallid was her countenance—stood + at the distance of a yard or two from her husband, upon whom her eyes were + fixed with an intenseness of gaze, like that of one who looks her last on + the object which she loves the best. She was the first to perceive Julian; + and she exclaimed, "Merciful Heaven!—my son!—the misery of our + house is complete!" + </p> + <p> + "My son!" echoed Sir Geoffrey, starting from the sullen state of + dejection, and swearing a deep oath—"thou art come in the right + time, Julian. Strike me one good blow—cleave me that traitorous + thief from the crown to the brisket! and that done, I care not what comes + next." + </p> + <p> + The sight of his father's situation made the son forget the inequality of + the contest which he was about to provoke. + </p> +<div class="fig" style="width:65%;"> + <img src="images/0497m.jpg" alt="0497m " width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <h5> + <a href="images/0497.jpg"><i>Original</i></a> + </h5> + <p> + "Villains," he said, "unhand him!" and rushing on the guards with his + drawn sword, compelled them to let go Sir Geoffrey, and stand on their own + defence. + </p> + <p> + Sir Geoffrey, thus far liberated, shouted to his lady. "Undo the belt, + dame, and we will have three good blows for it yet—they must fight + well that beat both father and son." + </p> + <p> + But one of those men who had started up from the writing-table when the + fray commenced, prevented Lady Peveril from rendering her husband this + assistance; while another easily mastered the hampered Knight, though not + without receiving several severe kicks from his heavy boots—his + condition permitting him no other mode of defence. A third, who saw that + Julian, young, active, and animated with the fury of a son who fights for + his parents, was compelling the two guards to give ground, seized on his + collar, and attempted to master his sword. Suddenly dropping that weapon, + and snatching one of his pistols, Julian fired it at the head of the + person by whom he was thus assailed. He did not drop, but, staggering back + as if he had received a severe blow, showed Peveril, as he sunk into a + chair, the features of old Bridgenorth, blackened with the explosion, + which had even set fire to a part of his grey hair. A cry of astonishment + escaped from Julian; and in the alarm and horror of the moment, he was + easily secured and disarmed by those with whom he had been at first + engaged. + </p> +<div class="fig" style="width:65%;"> + <img src="images/0299m.jpg" alt="0299m " width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <h5> + <a href="images/0299.jpg"><i>Original</i></a> + </h5> + <p> + "Heed it not, Julian," said Sir Geoffrey; "heed it not, my brave boy—that + shot has balanced all accounts!—but how—what the devil—he + lives!—Was your pistol loaded with chaff? or has the foul fiend + given him proof against lead?" + </p> + <p> + There was some reason for Sir Geoffrey's surprise, since, as he spoke, + Major Bridgenorth collected himself—sat up in the chair as one who + recovers from a stunning blow—then rose, and wiping with his + handkerchief the marks of the explosion from his face, he approached + Julian, and said, in the same cold unaltered tone in which he usually + expressed himself, "Young man, you have reason to bless God, who has this + day saved you from the commission of a great crime." + </p> + <p> + "Bless the devil, ye crop-eared knave!" exclaimed Sir Geoffrey; "for + nothing less than the father of all fanatics saved your brains from being + blown about like the rinsings of Beelzebub's porridge pot!" + </p> + <p> + "Sir Geoffrey," said Major Bridgenorth, "I have already told you, that + with you I will hold no argument; for to you I am not accountable for any + of my actions." + </p> + <p> + "Master Bridgenorth," said the lady, making a strong effort to speak, and + to speak with calmness, "whatever revenge your Christian state of + conscience may permit you to take on my husband—I—I, who have + some right to experience compassion at your hand, for most sincerely did I + compassionate you when the hand of Heaven was heavy on you—I implore + you not to involve my son in our common ruin!—Let the destruction of + the father and mother, with the ruin of our ancient house, satisfy your + resentment for any wrong which you have ever received at my husband's + hand." + </p> + <p> + "Hold your peace, housewife," said the Knight, "you speak like a fool, and + meddle with what concerns you not.—Wrong at <i>my</i> hand? The + cowardly knave has ever had but even too much right. Had I cudgelled the + cur soundly when he first bayed at me, the cowardly mongrel had been now + crouching at my feet, instead of flying at my throat. But if I get through + this action, as I have got through worse weather, I will pay off old + scores, as far as tough crab-tree and cold iron will bear me out." + </p> + <p> + "Sir Geoffrey," replied Bridgenorth, "if the birth you boast of has made + you blind to better principles, it might have at least taught you + civility. What do you complain of? I am a magistrate; and I execute a + warrant, addressed to me by the first authority in that state. I am a + creditor also of yours; and law arms me with powers to recover my own + property from the hands of an improvident debtor." + </p> + <p> + "You a magistrate!" said the Knight; "much such a magistrate as Noll was a + monarch. Your heart is up, I warrant, because you have the King's pardon; + and are replaced on the bench, forsooth, to persecute the poor Papist. + There was never turmoil in the state, but knaves had their vantage by it—never + pot boiled, but the scum was cast uppermost." + </p> + <p> + "For God's sake, my dearest husband," said Lady Peveril, "cease this wild + talk! It can but incense Master Bridgenorth, who might otherwise consider, + that in common charity——" + </p> + <p> + "Incense him!" said Sir Geoffrey, impatiently interrupting her; + "God's-death, madam, you will drive me mad! Have you lived so long in this + world, and yet expect consideration and charity from an old starved wolf + like that? And if he had it, do you think that I, or you, madam, as my + wife, are subjects for his charity?—Julian, my poor fellow, I am + sorry thou hast come so unluckily, since thy petronel was not better + loaded—but thy credit is lost for ever as a marksman." + </p> + <p> + This angry colloquy passed so rapidly on all sides, that Julian, scarce + recovered from the extremity of astonishment with which he was overwhelmed + at finding himself suddenly plunged into a situation of such extremity, + had no time to consider in what way he could most effectually act for the + succour of his parents. To speak to Bridgenorth fair seemed the more + prudent course; but to this his pride could hardly stoop; yet he forced + himself to say, with as much calmness as he could assume, + </p> + <p> + "Master Bridgenorth, since you act as a magistrate, I desire to be treated + according to the laws of England; and demand to know of what we are + accused, and by whose authority we are arrested?" + </p> + <p> + "Here is another howlet for ye!" exclaimed the impetuous old Knight; "his + mother speaks to a Puritan of charity; and thou must talk of law to a + round-headed rebel, with a wannion to you! What warrant hath he, think ye, + beyond the Parliament's or the devil's?" + </p> + <p> + "Who speaks of the Parliament?" said a person entering, whom Peveril + recognised as the official person whom he had before seen at the + horse-dealer's, and who now bustled in with all the conscious dignity of + plenary authority,—"Who talks of the Parliament?" he exclaimed. "I + promise you, enough has been found in this house to convict twenty + plotters—Here be arms, and that good store. Bring them in, Captain." + </p> + <p> + "The very same," exclaimed the Captain, approaching, "which I mention in + my printed Narrative of Information, lodged before the Honourable House of + Commons; they were commissioned from old Vander Huys of Rotterdam, by + orders of Don John of Austria, for the service of the Jesuits." + </p> + <p> + "Now, by this light," said Sir Geoffrey, "they are the pikes, musketoons, + and pistols, that have been hidden in the garret ever since Naseby fight!" + </p> + <p> + "And here," said the Captain's yoke-fellow, Everett, "are proper priest's + trappings—antiphoners, and missals, and copes, I warrant you—ay, + and proper pictures, too, for Papists to mutter and bow over." + </p> + <p> + "Now plague on thy snuffling whine," said Sir Geoffrey; "here is a rascal + will swear my grandmother's old farthingale to be priest's vestments, and + the story book of Owlenspiegel a Popish missal!" + </p> + <p> + "But how's this, Master Bridgenorth?" said Topham, addressing the + magistrate; "your honour has been as busy as we have; and you have caught + another knave while we recovered these toys." + </p> + <p> + "I think, sir," said Julian, "if you look into your warrant, which, if I + mistake not, names the persons whom you are directed to arrest, you will + find you have not title to apprehend me." + </p> + <p> + "Sir," said the officer, puffing with importance, "I do not know who you + are; but I would you were the best man in England, that I might teach you + the respect due to the warrant of the House. Sir, there steps not the man + within the British seas, but I will arrest him on authority of this bit of + parchment; and I do arrest you accordingly.—What do you accuse him + of, gentlemen?" + </p> + <p> + Dangerfield swaggered forward, and peeping under Julian's hat, "Stop my + vital breath," he exclaimed, "but I have seen you before, my friend, an I + could but think where; but my memory is not worth a bean, since I have + been obliged to use it so much of late, in the behalf of the poor state. + But I do know the fellow; and I have seen him amongst the Papists—, + I'll take that on my assured damnation." + </p> + <p> + "Why, Captain Dangerfield," said the Captain's smoother, but more + dangerous associate,—"verily, it is the same youth whom we saw at + the horse-merchant's yesterday; and we had matter against him then, only + Master Topham did not desire us to bring it out." + </p> + <p> + "Ye may bring out what ye will against him now," said Topham, "for he hath + blasphemed the warrant of the House. I think ye said ye saw him + somewhere." + </p> + <p> + "Ay, verily," said Everett, "I have seen him amongst the seminary pupils + at Saint Omer's—he was who but he with the regents there." + </p> + <p> + "Nay, Master Everett, collect yourself," said Topham; "for as I think, you + said you saw him at a consult of the Jesuits in London." + </p> + <p> + "It was I said so, Master Topham," said the undaunted Dangerfield; "and + mine is the tongue that will swear it." + </p> + <p> + "Good Master Topham," said Bridgenorth, "you may suspend farther inquiry + at present, as it doth but fatigue and perplex the memory of the King's + witnesses." + </p> + <p> + "You are wrong, Master Bridgenorth—clearly wrong. It doth but keep + them in wind—only breathes them like greyhounds before a coursing + match." + </p> + <p> + "Be it so," said Bridgenorth, with his usual indifference of manner; "but + at present this youth must stand committed upon a warrant, which I will + presently sign, of having assaulted me while in discharge of my duty as a + magistrate, for the rescue of a person legally attached. Did you not hear + the report of a pistol?" + </p> + <p> + "I will swear to it," said Everett. + </p> + <p> + "And I," said Dangerfield. "While we were making search in the cellar, I + heard something very like a pistol-shot; but I conceived it to be the + drawing of a long-corked bottle of sack, to see whether there were any + Popish relics in the inside on't." + </p> + <p> + "A pistol-shot!" exclaimed Topham; "here might have been a second Sir + Edmondsbury Godfrey's matter.—Oh, thou real spawn of the red old + dragon! for he too would have resisted the House's warrant, had we not + taken him something at unawares.—Master Bridgenorth, you are a + judicious magistrate, and a worthy servant of the state—I would we + had many such sound Protestant justices. Shall I have this young fellow + away with his parents—what think you?—or will you keep him for + re-examination?" + </p> + <p> + "Master Bridgenorth," said Lady Peveril, in spite of her husband's efforts + to interrupt her, "for God's sake, if ever you knew what it was to love + one of the many children you have lost, or her who is now left to you, do + not pursue your vengeance to the blood of my poor boy! I will forgive you + all the rest—all the distress you have wrought—all the yet + greater misery with which you threaten us; but do not be extreme with one + who never can have offended you! Believe, that if your ears are shut + against the cry of a despairing mother, those which are open to the + complaint of all who sorrow, will hear my petition and your answer!" + </p> + <p> + The agony of mind and of voice with which Lady Peveril uttered these + words, seemed to thrill through all present, though most of them were but + too much inured to such scenes. Every one was silent, when, ceasing to + speak, she fixed on Bridgenorth her eyes, glistening with tears, with the + eager anxiety of one whose life or death seemed to depend upon the answer + to be returned. Even Bridgenorth's inflexibility seemed to be shaken; and + his voice was tremulous, as he answered, "Madam, I would to God I had the + present means of relieving your great distress, otherwise than by + recommending to you a reliance upon Providence; and that you take heed to + your spirit, that it murmur not under this crook in your lot. For me, I am + but as a rod in the hand of the strong man, which smites not of itself, + but because it is wielded by the arm of him who holds the same." + </p> + <p> + "Even as I and my black rod are guided by the Commons of England," said + Master Topham, who seemed marvellously pleased with the illustration. + </p> + <p> + Julian now thought it time to say something in his own behalf; and he + endeavoured to temper it with as much composure as it was possible for him + to assume. "Master Bridgenorth," he said, "I neither dispute your + authority, nor this gentleman's warrant——" + </p> + <p> + "You do not?" said Topham. "Oh, ho, master youngster, I thought we should + bring you to your senses presently!" + </p> + <p> + "Then, if you so will it, Master Topham," said Bridgenorth, "thus it shall + be. You shall set out with early day, taking you, towards London, the + persons of Sir Geoffrey and Lady Peveril; and that they may travel + according to their quality, you will allow them their coach, sufficiently + guarded." + </p> + <p> + "I will travel with them myself," said Topham; "for these rough Derbyshire + roads are no easy riding; and my very eyes are weary with looking on these + bleak hills. In the coach I can sleep as sound as if I were in the House, + and Master Bodderbrains on his legs." + </p> + <p> + "It will become you so to take your ease, Master Topham," answered + Bridgenorth. "For this youth, I will take him under my charge, and bring + him up myself." + </p> + <p> + "I may not be answerable for that, worthy Master Bridgenorth," said + Topham, "since he comes within the warrant of the House." + </p> + <p> + "Nay, but," said Bridgenorth, "he is only under custody for an assault, + with the purpose of a rescue; and I counsel you against meddling with him, + unless you have stronger guard. Sir Geoffrey is now old and broken, but + this young fellow is in the flower of his youth, and hath at his beck all + the debauched young Cavaliers of the neighbourhood—You will scarce + cross the country without a rescue." + </p> + <p> + Topham eyed Julian wistfully, as a spider may be supposed to look upon a + stray wasp which has got into his web, and which he longs to secure, + though he fears the consequences of attempting him. + </p> + <p> + Julian himself replied, "I know not if this separation be well or ill + meant on your part, Master Bridgenorth; but on mine, I am only desirous to + share the fate of my parents; and therefore I will give my word of honour + to attempt neither rescue nor escape, on condition you do not separate me + from them." + </p> + <p> + "Do not say so, Julian," said his mother; "abide with Master Bridgenorth—my + mind tells me he cannot mean so ill by us as his rough conduct would now + lead us to infer." + </p> + <p> + "And I," said Sir Geoffrey, "know, that between the doors of my father's + house and the gates of hell, there steps not such a villain on the ground! + And if I wish my hands ever to be unbound again, it is because I hope for + one downright blow at a grey head, that has hatched more treason than the + whole Long Parliament." + </p> + <p> + "Away with thee," said the zealous officer; "is Parliament a word for so + foul a mouth as thine?—Gentlemen," he added, turning to Everett and + Dangerfield, "you will bear witness to this." + </p> + <p> + "To his having reviled the House of Commons—by G—d, that I + will!" said Dangerfield; "I will take it on my damnation." + </p> + <p> + "And verily," said Everett, "as he spoke of Parliament generally, he hath + contemned the House of Lords also." + </p> + <p> + "Why, ye poor insignificant wretches," said Sir Geoffrey, "whose very life + is a lie—and whose bread is perjury—would you pervert my + innocent words almost as soon as they have quitted my lips? I tell you the + country is well weary of you; and should Englishmen come to their senses, + the jail, the pillory, the whipping-post, and the gibbet, will be too good + preferment for such base blood-suckers.—And now, Master Bridgenorth, + you and they may do your worst; for I will not open my mouth to utter a + single word while I am in the company of such knaves." + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps, Sir Geoffrey," answered Bridgenorth, "you would better have + consulted your own safety in adopting that resolution a little sooner—the + tongue is a little member, but it causes much strife.—You, Master + Julian, will please to follow me, and without remonstrance or resistance; + for you must be aware that I have the means of compelling." + </p> + <p> + Julian was, indeed, but too sensible, that he had no other course but that + of submission to superior force; but ere he left the apartment, he kneeled + down to receive his father's blessing, which the old man bestowed not + without a tear in his eye, and in the emphatic words, "God bless thee, my + boy; and keep thee good and true to Church and King, whatever wind shall + bring foul weather!" + </p> + <p> + His mother was only able to pass her hand over his head, and to implore + him, in a low tone of voice, not to be rash or violent in any attempt to + render them assistance. "We are innocent," she said, "my son—we are + innocent—and we are in God's hands. Be the thought our best comfort + and protection." + </p> + <p> + Bridgenorth now signed to Julian to follow him, which he did, accompanied, + or rather conducted, by the two guards who had first disarmed him. When + they had passed from the apartment, and were at the door of the outward + hall, Bridgenorth asked Julian whether he should consider him as under + parole; in which case, he said, he would dispense with all other security + but his own promise. + </p> + <p> + Peveril, who could not help hoping somewhat from the favourable and + unresentful manner in which he was treated by one whose life he had so + recently attempted, replied, without hesitation, that he would give his + parole for twenty-four hours, neither to attempt to escape by force nor by + flight. + </p> + <p> + "It is wisely said," replied Bridgenorth; "for though you might cause + bloodshed, be assured that your utmost efforts could do no service to your + parents.—Horses there—horses to the courtyard!" + </p> + <p> + The trampling of horses was soon heard; and in obedience to Bridgenorth's + signal, and in compliance with his promise, Julian mounted one which was + presented to him, and prepared to leave the house of his fathers, in which + his parents were now prisoners, and to go, he knew not whither, under the + custody of one known to be the ancient enemy of his family. He was rather + surprised at observing, that Bridgenorth and he were about to travel + without any other attendants. + </p> + <p> + When they were mounted, and as they rode slowly towards the outer gate of + the courtyard, Bridgenorth said to him, "it is not every one who would + thus unreservedly commit his safety by travelling at night, and unaided, + with the hot-brained youth who so lately attempted his life." + </p> + <p> + "Master Bridgenorth," said Julian, "I might tell you truly, that I knew + you not at the time when I directed my weapon against you; but I must also + add, that the cause in which I used it, might have rendered me, even had I + known you, a slight respecter of your person. At present, I do know you; + and have neither malice against your person, nor the liberty of a parent + to fight for. Besides, you have my word; and when was a Peveril known to + break it?" + </p> + <p> + "Ay," replied his companion, "a Peveril—a Peveril of the Peak!—a + name which has long sounded like a war-trumpet in the land; but which has + now perhaps sounded its last loud note. Look back, young man, on the + darksome turrets of your father's house, which uplift themselves above the + sons of their people. Think upon your father, a captive—yourself in + some sort a fugitive—your light quenched—your glory abased—your + estate wrecked and impoverished. Think that Providence has subjected the + destinies of the race of Peveril to one, whom, in their aristocratic + pride, they held as a plebeian upstart. Think of this; and when you again + boast of your ancestry, remember, that he who raiseth the lowly can also + abase the high in heart." + </p> + <p> + Julian did indeed gaze for an instant, with a swelling heart, upon the + dimly seen turrets of his paternal mansion, on which poured the moonlight, + mixed with long shadows of the towers and trees. But while he sadly + acknowledged the truth of Bridgenorth's observation, he felt indignant at + his ill-timed triumph. "If fortune had followed worth," he said, "the + Castle of Martindale, and the name of Peveril, had afforded no room for + their enemy's vainglorious boast. But those who have stood high on + Fortune's wheel, must abide by the consequence of its revolutions. This + much I will at least say for my father's house, that it has not stood + unhonoured; nor will it fall—if it is to fall—unlamented. + Forbear, then, if you are indeed the Christian you call yourself, to exult + in the misfortunes of others, or to confide in your own prosperity. If the + light of our house be now quenched, God can rekindle it in His own good + time." + </p> + <p> + Peveril broke off in extreme surprise; for as he spake the last words, the + bright red beams of the family beacon began again to glimmer from its + wonted watch-tower, checkering the pale moonbeam with a ruddier glow. + Bridgenorth also gazed on this unexpected illumination with surprise, and + not, as it seemed, without disquietude. "Young man," he resumed, "it can + scarcely be but that Heaven intends to work great things by your hand, so + singularly has that augury followed on your words." + </p> + <p> + So saying, he put his horse once more in motion; and looking back, from + time to time, as if to assure himself that the beacon of the Castle was + actually rekindled, he led the way through the well-known paths and + alleys, to his own house of Moultrassie, followed by Peveril, who although + sensible that the light might be altogether accidental, could not but + receive as a good omen an event so intimately connected with the + traditions and usages of his family. + </p> + <p> + They alighted at the hall-door, which was hastily opened by a female; and + while the deep tone of Bridgenorth called on the groom to take their + horses, the well-known voice of his daughter Alice was heard to exclaim in + thanksgiving to God, who had restored her father in safety. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0024" id="link2HCH0024"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIV + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + We meet, as men see phantoms in a dream, + Which glide, and sigh, and sign, and move their lips, + But make no sound; or, if they utter voice, + 'Tis but a low and undistinguish'd moaning, + Which has nor word nor sense of utter'd sound. + —THE CHIEFTAIN. +</pre> + <p> + We said, at the conclusion of the last chapter, that a female form + appeared at the door of Moultrassie Hall; and that the well-known accents + of Alice Bridgenorth were heard to hail the return of her father, from + what she naturally dreaded as a perilous visit to the Castle of + Martindale. + </p> + <p> + Julian, who followed his conductor with a throbbing heart into the lighted + hall, was therefore prepared to see her whom he best loved, with her arms + thrown around her father. The instant she had quitted his paternal + embrace, she was aware of the unexpected guest who had returned in his + company. A deep blush, rapidly succeeded by a deadly paleness, and again + by a slighter suffusion, showed plainly to her lover that his sudden + appearance was anything but indifferent to her. He bowed profoundly—a + courtesy which she returned with equal formality, but did not venture to + approach more nearly, feeling at once the delicacy of his own situation + and of hers. + </p> + <p> + Major Bridgenorth turned his cold, fixed, grey, melancholy glance, first + on the one of them and then on the other. "Some," he said gravely, "would, + in my case, have avoided this meeting; but I have confidence in you both, + although you are young, and beset with the snares incidental to your age. + There are those within who should not know that ye have been acquainted. + Wherefore, be wise, and be as strangers to each other." + </p> + <p> + Julian and Alice exchanged glances as her father turned from them, and + lifting a lamp which stood in the entrance-hall, led the way to the + interior apartment. There was little of consolation in this exchange of + looks; for the sadness of Alice's glance was mingled with fear, and that + of Julian clouded by an anxious sense of doubt. The look also was but + momentary; for Alice, springing to her father, took the light out of his + hand, and stepping before him, acted as the usher of both into the large + oaken parlour, which has been already mentioned as the apartment in which + Bridgenorth had spent the hours of dejection which followed the death of + his consort and family. It was now lighted up as for the reception of + company; and five or six persons sat in it, in the plain, black, stiff + dress, which was affected by the formal Puritans of the time, in evidence + of their contempt of the manners of the luxurious Court of Charles the + Second; amongst whom, excess of extravagance in apparel, like excess of + every other kind, was highly fashionable. + </p> + <p> + Julian at first glanced his eyes but slightly along the range of grave and + severe faces which composed this society—men sincere, perhaps, in + their pretensions to a superior purity of conduct and morals, but in whom + that high praise was somewhat chastened by an affected austerity in dress + and manners, allied to those Pharisees of old, who made broad their + phylacteries, and would be seen of man to fast, and to discharge with + rigid punctuality the observances of the law. Their dress was almost + uniformly a black cloak and doublet, cut straight and close, and + undecorated with lace or embroidery of any kind, black Flemish breeches + and hose, square-toed shoes, with large roses made of serge ribbon. Two or + three had large loose boots of calf-leather, and almost every one was + begirt with a long rapier, which was suspended by leathern thongs, to a + plain belt of buff, or of black leather. One or two of the elder guests, + whose hair had been thinned by time, had their heads covered with a + skull-cap of black silk or velvet, which, being drawn down betwixt the + ears and the skull, and permitting no hair to escape, occasioned the + former to project in the ungraceful manner which may be remarked in old + pictures, and which procured for the Puritans the term of "prickeared + Roundheads," so unceremoniously applied to them by their contemporaries. + </p> + <p> + These worthies were ranged against the wall, each in his ancient + high-backed, long-legged chair; neither looking towards, nor apparently + discoursing with each other; but plunged in their own reflections, or + awaiting, like an assembly of Quakers, the quickening power of divine + inspiration. + </p> + <p> + Major Bridgenorth glided along this formal society with noiseless step, + and a composed severity of manner, resembling their own. He paused before + each in succession, and apparently communicated, as he passed, the + transactions of the evening, and the circumstances under which the heir of + Martindale Castle was now a guest at Moultrassie Hall. Each seemed to stir + at his brief detail, like a range of statues in an enchanted hall, + starting into something like life, as a talisman is applied to them + successively. Most of them, as they heard the narrative of their host, + cast upon Julian a look of curiosity, blended with haughty scorn and the + consciousness of spiritual superiority; though, in one or two instances, + the milder influences of compassion were sufficiently visible.—Peveril + would have undergone this gantlet of eyes with more impatience, had not + his own been for the time engaged in following the motions of Alice, who + glided through the apartment; and only speaking very briefly, and in + whispers, to one or two of the company who addressed her, took her place + beside a treble-hooded old lady, the only female of the party, and + addressed herself to her in such earnest conversation, as might dispense + with her raising her head, or looking at any others in the company. + </p> + <p> + Her father put a question, to which she was obliged to return an answer—"Where + was Mistress Debbitch?" + </p> + <p> + "She has gone out," Alice replied, "early after sunset, to visit some old + acquaintances in the neighbourhood, and she was not yet returned." + </p> + <p> + Major Bridgenorth made a gesture indicative of displeasure; and, not + content with that, expressed his determined resolution that Dame Deborah + should no longer remain a member of his family. "I will have those," he + said aloud, and without regarding the presence of his guests, "and those + only, around me, who know to keep within the sober and modest bounds of a + Christian family. Who pretends to more freedom, must go out from among us, + as not being of us." + </p> + <p> + A deep and emphatic humming noise, which was at that time the mode in + which the Puritans signified their applause, as well of the doctrines + expressed by a favourite divine in the pulpit, as of those delivered in + private society, ratified the approbation of the assessors, and seemed to + secure the dismission of the unfortunate governante, who stood thus + detected of having strayed out of bounds. Even Peveril, although he had + reaped considerable advantages, in his early acquaintance with Alice, from + the mercenary and gossiping disposition of her governess, could not hear + of her dismissal without approbation, so much was he desirous, that, in + the hour of difficulty which might soon approach, Alice might have the + benefit of countenance and advice from one of her own sex of better + manners, and less suspicious probity, than Mistress Debbitch. + </p> + <p> + Almost immediately after this communication had taken place, a servant in + mourning showed his thin, pinched, and wrinkled visage in the apartment, + announcing, with a voice more like a passing bell than the herald of a + banquet, that refreshments were provided in an adjoining apartment. + Gravely leading the way, with his daughter on one side, and the + puritanical female whom we have distinguished on the other, Bridgenorth + himself ushered his company, who followed, with little attention to order + or ceremony, into the eating-room, where a substantial supper was + provided. + </p> + <p> + In this manner, Peveril, although entitled according to ordinary + ceremonial, to some degree of precedence—a matter at that time + considered of much importance, although now little regarded—was left + among the last of those who quitted the parlour; and might indeed have + brought up the rear of all, had not one of the company, who was himself + late in the retreat, bowed and resigned to Julian the rank in the company + which had been usurped by others. + </p> + <p> + This act of politeness naturally induced Julian to examine the features of + the person who had offered him this civility; and he started to observe, + under the pinched velvet cap, and above the short band-strings, the + countenance of Ganlesse, as he called himself—his companion on the + preceding evening. He looked again and again, especially when all were + placed at the supper board, and when, consequently, he had frequent + opportunities of observing this person fixedly without any breach of good + manners. At first he wavered in his belief, and was much inclined to doubt + the reality of his recollection; for the difference of dress was such as + to effect a considerable change of appearance; and the countenance itself, + far from exhibiting anything marked or memorable, was one of those + ordinary visages which we see almost without remarking them, and which + leave our memory so soon as the object is withdrawn from our eyes. But the + impression upon his mind returned, and became stronger, until it induced + him to watch with peculiar attention the manners of the individual who had + thus attracted his notice. + </p> + <p> + During the time of a very prolonged grace before meat, which was delivered + by one of the company—who, from his Geneva band and serge doublet, + presided, as Julian supposed, over some dissenting congregation—he + noticed that this man kept the same demure and severe cast of countenance + usually affected by the Puritans, and which rather caricatured the + reverence unquestionably due upon such occasions. His eyes were turned + upward, and his huge penthouse hat, with a high crown and broad brim, held + in both hands before him, rose and fell with the cadences of the speaker's + voice; thus marking time, as it were, to the periods of the benediction. + Yet when the slight bustle took place which attends the adjusting of + chairs, &c., as men sit down to table, Julian's eye encountered that + of the stranger; and as their looks met, there glanced from those of the + latter an expression of satirical humour and scorn, which seemed to + intimate internal ridicule of the gravity of his present demeanour. + </p> + <p> + Julian again sought to fix his eye, in order to ascertain that he had not + mistaken the tendency of this transient expression, but the stranger did + not allow him another opportunity. He might have been discovered by the + tone of his voice; but the individual in question spoke little, and in + whispers, which was indeed the fashion of the whole company, whose + demeanour at table resembled that of mourners at a funeral feast. + </p> + <p> + The entertainment itself was coarse, though plentiful; and must, according + to Julian's opinion, be distasteful to one so exquisitely skilled in good + cheer, and so capable of enjoying, critically and scientifically, the + genial preparations of his companion Smith, as Ganlesse had shown himself + on the preceding evening. Accordingly, upon close observation, he remarked + that the food which he took upon his plate remained there unconsumed; and + that his actual supper consisted only of a crust of bread, with a glass of + wine. + </p> + <p> + The repast was hurried over with the haste of those who think it shame, if + not sin, to make mere animal enjoyments the means of consuming time, or of + receiving pleasure; and when men wiped their mouths and moustaches, Julian + remarked that the object of his curiosity used a handkerchief of the + finest cambric—an article rather inconsistent with the exterior + plainness, not to say coarseness, of his appearance. He used also several + of the more minute refinements, then only observed at tables of the higher + rank; and Julian thought he could discern, at every turn, something of + courtly manners and gestures, under the precise and rustic simplicity of + the character which he had assumed.[*] + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +[*] A Scottish gentleman <i>in hiding</i>, as it was emphatically termed, + for some concern in a Jacobite insurrection or plot, was + discovered among a number of ordinary persons, by the use of his + toothpick. +</pre> + <p> + But if this were indeed that same Ganlesse with whom Julian had met on the + preceding evening, and who had boasted the facility with which he could + assume any character which he pleased to represent for the time, what + could be the purpose of this present disguise? He was, if his own words + could be credited, a person of some importance, who dared to defy the + danger of those officers and informers, before whom all ranks at that time + trembled; nor was he likely, as Julian conceived, without some strong + purpose, to subject himself to such a masquerade as the present, which + could not be otherwise than irksome to one whose conversation proclaimed + him of light life and free opinions. Was his appearance here for good or + for evil? Did it respect his father's house, or his own person, or the + family of Bridgenorth? Was the real character of Ganlesse known to the + master of the house, inflexible as he was in all which concerned morals as + well as religion? If not, might not the machinations of a brain so subtile + affect the peace and happiness of Alice Bridgenorth? + </p> + <p> + These were questions which no reflection could enable Peveril to answer. + His eyes glanced from Alice to the stranger; and new fears, and undefined + suspicions, in which the safety of that beloved and lovely girl was + implicated, mingled with the deep anxiety which already occupied his mind, + on account of his father and his father's house. + </p> + <p> + He was in this tumult of mind, when after a thanksgiving as long as the + grace, the company arose from table, and were instantly summoned to the + exercise of family worship. A train of domestics, grave, sad, and + melancholy as their superiors, glided in to assist at this act of + devotion, and ranged themselves at the lower end of the apartment. Most of + these men were armed with long tucks, as the straight stabbing swords, + much used by Cromwell's soldiery, were then called. Several had large + pistols also; and the corselets or cuirasses of some were heard to clank, + as they seated themselves to partake in this act of devotion. The ministry + of him whom Julian had supposed a preacher was not used on this occasion. + Major Bridgenorth himself read and expounded a chapter of Scripture, with + much strength and manliness of expression, although so as not to escape + the charge of fanaticism. The nineteenth chapter of Jeremiah was the + portion of Scripture which he selected; in which, under the type of + breaking a potter's vessel, the prophet presages the desolation of the + Jews. The lecturer was not naturally eloquent; but a strong, deep, and + sincere conviction of the truth of what he said supplied him with language + of energy and fire, as he drew parallel between the abominations of the + worship of Baal, and the corruptions of the Church of Rome—so + favourite a topic with the Puritans of that period; and denounced against + the Catholics, and those who favoured them, that hissing and desolation + which the prophet directed against the city of Jerusalem. His hearers made + a yet closer application than the lecturer himself suggested; and many a + dark proud eye intimated, by a glance on Julian, that on his father's + house were already, in some part, realised those dreadful maledictions. + </p> + <p> + The lecture finished, Bridgenorth summoned them to unite with him in + prayer; and on a slight change of arrangements amongst the company, which + took place as they were about to kneel down, Julian found his place next + to the single-minded and beautiful object of his affection, as she knelt, + in her loveliness, to adore her Creator. A short time was permitted for + mental devotion; during which Peveril could hear her half-breathed + petition for the promised blessings of peace on earth, and good-will + towards the children of men. + </p> + <p> + The prayer which ensued was in a different tone. It was poured forth by + the same person who had officiated as chaplain at the table; and was in + the tone of a Boanerges, or Son of Thunder—a denouncer of crimes—an + invoker of judgments—almost a prophet of evil and of destruction. + The testimonies and the sins of the day were not forgotten—the + mysterious murder of Sir Edmondsbury Godfrey was insisted upon—and + thanks and praise were offered, that the very night on which they were + assembled, had not seen another offering of a Protestant magistrate, to + the bloodthirsty fury of revengeful Catholics. + </p> + <p> + Never had Julian found it more difficult, during an act of devotion, to + maintain his mind in a frame befitting the posture and the occasion; and + when he heard the speaker return thanks for the downfall and devastation + of his family, he was strongly tempted to have started upon his feet, and + charged him with offering a tribute, stained with falsehood and calumny, + at the throne of truth itself. He resisted, however, an impulse which it + would have been insanity to have yielded to, and his patience was not + without its reward; for when his fair neighbour arose from her knees, the + lengthened and prolonged prayer being at last concluded, he observed that + her eyes were streaming with tears; and one glance with which she looked + at him in that moment, showed more of affectionate interest for him in his + fallen fortunes and precarious condition, than he had been able to obtain + from her when his worldly estate seemed so much the more exalted of the + two. + </p> + <p> + Cheered and fortified with the conviction that one bosom in the company, + and that in which he most eagerly longed to secure an interest, + sympathised with his distress, he felt strong to endure whatever was to + follow, and shrunk not from the stern still smile with which, one by one, + the meeting regarded him, as, gliding to their several places of repose, + they indulged themselves at parting with a look of triumph on one whom + they considered as their captive enemy. + </p> + <p> + Alice also passed by her lover, her eyes fixed on the ground, and answered + his low obeisance without raising them. The room was now empty, but for + Bridgenorth and his guest, or prisoner; for it is difficult to say in + which capacity Peveril ought to regard himself. He took an old brazen lamp + from the table, and, leading the way, said at the same time, "I must be + the uncourtly chamberlain, who am to usher you to a place of repose, more + rude, perhaps, than you have been accustomed to occupy." + </p> + <p> + Julian followed him, in silence, up an old-fashioned winding staircase, + within a turret. At the landing-place on the top was a small apartment, + where an ordinary pallet bed, two chairs, and a small stone table, were + the only furniture. "Your bed," continued Bridgenorth, as if desirous to + prolong their interview, "is not of the softest; but innocence sleeps as + sound upon straw as on down." + </p> + <p> + "Sorrow, Major Bridgenorth, finds little rest on either," replied Julian. + "Tell me, for you seem to await some question from me, what is to be the + fate of my parents, and why you separate me from them?" + </p> + <p> + Bridgenorth, for answer, indicated with his finger the mark which his + countenance still showed from the explosion of Julian's pistol. + </p> + <p> + "That," replied Julian, "is not the real cause of your proceedings against + me. It cannot be, that you, who have been a soldier, and are a man, can be + surprised or displeased by my interference in the defence of my father. + Above all, you cannot, and I must needs say you do not, believe that I + would have raised my hand against you personally, had there been a + moment's time for recognition." + </p> + <p> + "I may grant all this," said Bridgenorth; "but what the better are you for + my good opinion, or for the ease with which I can forgive you the injury + which you aimed at me? You are in my custody as a magistrate, accused of + abetting the foul, bloody, and heathenish plot, for the establishment of + Popery, the murder of the King, and the general massacre of all true + Protestants." + </p> + <p> + "And on what grounds, either of fact or suspicion, dare any one accuse me + of such a crime?" said Julian. "I have hardly heard of the plot, save by + the mouth of common rumour, which, while it speaks of nothing else, takes + care to say nothing distinctly even on that subject." + </p> + <p> + "It may be enough for me to tell you," replied Bridgenorth, "and perhaps + it is a word too much—that you are a discovered intriguer—a + spied spy—who carries tokens and messages betwixt the Popish + Countess of Derby and the Catholic party in London. You have not conducted + your matters with such discretion, but that this is well known, and can be + sufficiently proved. To this charge, which you are well aware you cannot + deny, these men, Everett and Dangerfield, are not unwilling to add, from + the recollection of your face, other passages, which will certainly cost + you your life when you come before a Protestant jury." + </p> + <p> + "They lie like villains," said Peveril, "who hold me accessory to any plot + either against the King, the nation, or the state of religion; and for the + Countess, her loyalty has been too long, and too highly proved, to permit + her being implicated in such injurious suspicions." + </p> + <p> + "What she has already done," said Bridgenorth, his face darkening as he + spoke, "against the faithful champions of pure religion, hath sufficiently + shown of what she is capable. She hath betaken herself to her rock, and + sits, as she thinks, in security, like the eagle reposing after his bloody + banquet. But the arrow of the fowler may yet reach her—the shaft is + whetted—the bow is bended—and it will be soon seen whether + Amalek or Israel shall prevail. But for thee, Julian Peveril—why + should I conceal it from thee?—my heart yearns for thee as a woman's + for her first-born. To thee I will give, at the expense of my own + reputation—perhaps at the risk of personal suspicion—for who, + in these days of doubt, shall be exempted from it—to thee, I say, I + will give means of escape, which else were impossible to thee. The + staircase of this turret descends to the gardens—the postern-gate is + unlatched—on the right hand lie the stables, where you will find + your own horse—take it, and make for Liverpool—I will give you + credit with a friend under the name of Simon Simonson, one persecuted by + the prelates; and he will expedite your passage from the kingdom." + </p> + <p> + "Major Bridgenorth," said Julian, "I will not deceive you. Were I to + accept your offer of freedom, it would be to attend to a higher call than + that of mere self-preservation. My father is in danger—my mother in + sorrow—the voices of religion and nature call me to their side. I am + their only child—their only hope—I will aid them, or perish + with them!" + </p> + <p> + "Thou art mad," said Bridgenorth—"aid them thou canst not—perish + with them thou mayst, and even accelerate their ruin; for, in addition to + the charges with which thy unhappy father is loaded, it would be no slight + aggravation, that while he meditated arming and calling together the + Catholics and High Churchmen of Cheshire and Derbyshire, his son should + prove to be the confidential agent of the Countess of Derby, who aided her + in making good her stronghold against the Protestant commissioners, and + was despatched by her to open secret communication with the Popish + interest in London." + </p> + <p> + "You have twice stated me as such an agent," said Peveril, resolved that + his silence should not be construed into an admission of the charge, + though he felt it was in some degree well founded—"What reason have + you for such an allegation?" + </p> + <p> + "Will it suffice for a proof of my intimate acquaintance with your + mystery," replied Bridgenorth, "if I should repeat to you the last words + which the Countess used to you when you left the Castle of that + Amalekitish woman? Thus she spoke: 'I am now a forlorn widow,' she said, + 'whom sorrow has made selfish.'" + </p> + <p> + Peveril started, for these were the very words the Countess had used; but + he instantly recovered himself, and replied, "Be your information of what + nature it will, I deny, and I defy it, so far as it attaches aught like + guilt to me. There lives not a man more innocent of a disloyal thought, or + of a traitorous purpose. What I say for myself, I will, to the best of my + knowledge, say and maintain on account of the noble Countess, to whom I am + indebted for nurture." + </p> + <p> + "Perish, then, in thy obstinacy!" said Bridgenorth; and turning hastily + from him, he left the room, and Julian heard him hasten down the narrow + staircase, as if distrusting his own resolution. + </p> + <p> + With a heavy heart, yet with that confidence in an overruling Providence + which never forsakes a good and brave man, Peveril betook himself to his + lowly place of repose. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0025" id="link2HCH0025"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXV + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + The course of human life is changeful still, + As is the fickle wind and wandering rill; + Or, like the light dance which the wild-breeze weaves + Amidst the fated race of fallen leaves; + Which now its breath bears down, now tosses high, + Beats to the earth, or wafts to middle sky. + Such, and so varied, the precarious play + Of fate with man, frail tenant of a day! + —ANONYMOUS. +</pre> + <p> + Whilst, overcome with fatigue, and worn out by anxiety, Julian Peveril + slumbered as a prisoner in the house of his hereditary enemy, Fortune was + preparing his release by one of those sudden frolics with which she loves + to confound the calculations and expectancies of humanity; and as she + fixes on strange agents for such purposes, she condescended to employ on + the present occasion, no less a personage than Mistress Deborah Debbitch. + </p> + <p> + Instigated, doubtless, by the pristine reminiscences of former times, no + sooner had that most prudent and considerate dame found herself in the + vicinity of the scenes of her earlier days, than she bethought herself of + a visit to the ancient house-keeper of Martindale Castle, Dame Ellesmere + by name, who, long retired from active service, resided at the keeper's + lodge, in the west thicket, with her nephew, Lance Outram, subsisting upon + the savings of her better days, and on a small pension allowed by Sir + Geoffrey to her age and faithful services. + </p> + <p> + Now Dame Ellesmere and Mistress Deborah had not by any means been formerly + on so friendly a footing, as this haste to visit her might be supposed to + intimate. But years had taught Deborah to forget and forgive; or perhaps + she had no special objection, under cover of a visit to Dame Ellesmere, to + take the chance of seeing what changes time had made on her old admirer + the keeper. Both inhabitants were in the cottage when, after having seen + her master set forth on his expedition to the Castle, Mistress Debbitch, + dressed in her very best gown, footed it through gutter, and over stile, + and by pathway green, to knock at their door, and to lift the hatch at the + hospitable invitation which bade her come in. + </p> + <p> + Dame Ellesmere's eyes were so often dim, that, even with the aid of + spectacles, she failed to recognise, in the portly and mature personage + who entered their cottage, the tight well-made lass, who, presuming on her + good looks and flippant tongue, had so often provoked her by + insubordination; and her former lover, the redoubted Lance, not being + conscious that ale had given rotundity to his own figure, which was + formerly so slight and active, and that brandy had transferred to his nose + the colour which had once occupied his cheeks, was unable to discover that + Deborah's French cap, composed of sarsenet and Brussels lace, shaded the + features which had so often procured him a rebuke from Dr. Dummerar, for + suffering his eyes, during the time of prayers, to wander to the + maid-servants' bench. + </p> + <p> + In brief, the blushing visitor was compelled to make herself known; and + when known, was received by aunt and nephew with the most sincere + cordiality. + </p> + <p> + The home-brewed was produced; and, in lieu of more vulgar food, a few + slices of venison presently hissed in the frying pan, giving strong room + for inference that Lance Outram, in his capacity of keeper, neglected not + his own cottage when he supplied the larder at the Castle. A modest sip of + the excellent Derbyshire ale, and a taste of the highly-seasoned hash, + soon placed Deborah entirely at home with her old acquaintance. + </p> + <p> + Having put all necessary questions, and received all suitable answers, + respecting the state of the neighbourhood, and such of her own friends as + continued to reside there, the conversation began rather to flag, until + Deborah found the art of again re-newing its interest, by communicating to + her friends the dismal intelligence that they must soon look for deadly + bad news from the Castle; for that her present master, Major Bridgenorth, + had been summoned, by some great people from London, to assist in taking + her old master, Sir Geoffrey; and that all Master Bridgenorth's servants, + and several other persons whom she named, friends and adherents of the + same interest, had assembled a force to surprise the Castle; and that as + Sir Geoffrey was now so old, and gouty withal, it could not be expected he + should make the defence he was wont; and then he was known to be so + stout-hearted, that it was not to be supposed that he would yield up + without stroke of sword; and then if he was killed, as he was like to be, + amongst them that liked never a bone of his body, and now had him at their + mercy, why, in that case, she, Dame Deborah, would look upon Lady Peveril + as little better than a dead woman; and undoubtedly there would be a + general mourning through all that country, where they had such great kin; + and silks were likely to rise on it, as Master Lutestring, the mercer of + Chesterfield, was like to feel in his purse bottom. But for her part, let + matters wag how they would, an if Master Julian Peveril was to come to his + own, she could give as near a guess as e'er another who was likely to be + Lady at Martindale. + </p> + <p> + The text of this lecture, or, in other words, the fact that Bridgenorth + was gone with a party to attack Sir Geoffrey Peveril in his own Castle of + Martindale, sounded so stunningly strange in the ears of those old + retainers of his family, that they had no power either to attend to + Mistress Deborah's inferences, or to interrupt the velocity of speech with + which she poured them forth. And when at length she made a breathless + pause, all that poor Dame Ellesmere could reply, was the emphatic + question, "Bridgenorth brave Peveril of the Peak!—Is the woman mad?" + </p> + <p> + "Come, come, dame," said Deborah, "woman me no more than I woman you. I + have not been called Mistress at the head of the table for so many years, + to be woman'd here by you. And for the news, it is as true as that you are + sitting there in a white hood, who will wear a black one ere long." + </p> + <p> + "Lance Outram," said the old woman, "make out, if thou be'st a man, and + listen about if aught stirs up at the Castle." + </p> + <p> + "If there should," said Outram, "I am even too long here;" and he caught + up his crossbow, and one or two arrows, and rushed out of the cottage. + </p> + <p> + "Well-a-day!" said Mistress Deborah, "see if my news have not frightened + away Lance Outram too, whom they used to say nothing could start. But do + not take on so, dame; for I dare say if the Castle and the lands pass to + my new master, Major Bridgenorth, as it is like they will—for I have + heard that he has powerful debts over the estate—you shall have my + good word with him, and I promise you he is no bad man; something precise + about preaching and praying, and about the dress which one should wear, + which, I must own, beseems not a gentleman, as, to be sure, every woman + knows best what becomes her. But for you, dame, that wear a prayer-book at + your girdle, with your housewife-case, and never change the fashion of + your white hood, I dare say he will not grudge you the little matter you + need, and are not able to win." + </p> + <p> + "Out, sordid jade!" exclaimed Dame Ellesmere, her very flesh quivering + betwixt apprehension and anger, "and hold your peace this instant, or I + will find those that shall flay the very hide from thee with dog-whips. + Hast thou ate thy noble master's bread, not only to betray his trust, and + fly from his service, but wouldst thou come here, like an ill-omened bird + as thou art, to triumph over his downfall?" + </p> + <p> + "Nay, dame," said Deborah, over whom the violence of the old woman had + obtained a certain predominance; "it is not I that say it—only the + warrant of the Parliament folks." + </p> + <p> + "I thought we had done with their warrants ever since the blessed + twenty-ninth of May," said the old housekeeper of Martindale Castle; "but + this I tell thee, sweetheart, that I have seen such warrants crammed, at + the sword's point, down the throats of them that brought them; and so + shall this be, if there is one true man left to drink of the Dove." + </p> + <p> + As she spoke, Lance Outram re-entered the cottage. "Naunt," he said in + dismay, "I doubt it is true what she says. The beacon tower is as black as + my belt. No Pole-star of Peveril. What does that betoken?" + </p> + <p> + "Death, ruin, and captivity," exclaimed old Ellesmere. "Make for the + Castle, thou knave. Thrust in thy great body. Strike for the house that + bred thee and fed thee; and if thou art buried under the ruins, thou diest + a man's death." + </p> + <p> + "Nay, naunt, I shall not be slack," answered Outram. "But here come folks + that I warrant can tell us more on't." + </p> + <p> + One or two of the female servants, who had fled from the Castle during the + alarm, now rushed in with various reports of the case; but all agreeing + that a body of armed men were in possession of the Castle, and that Major + Bridgenorth had taken young Master Julian prisoner, and conveyed him down + to Moultrassie Hall, with his feet tied under the belly of the nag—a + shameful sight to be seen—and he so well born and so handsome. + </p> + <p> + Lance scratched his head; and though feeling the duty incumbent upon him + as a faithful servant, which was indeed specially dinned into him by the + cries and exclamations of his aunt, he seemed not a little dubious how to + conduct himself. "I would to God, naunt," he said at last, "that old + Whitaker were alive now, with his long stories about Marston Moor and Edge + Hill, that made us all yawn our jaws off their hinges, in spite of broiled + rashers and double beer! When a man is missed, he is moaned, as they say; + and I would rather than a broad piece he had been here to have sorted this + matter, for it is clean out of my way as a woodsman, that have no skill of + war. But dang it, if old Sir Geoffrey go to the wall without a knock for + it!—Here you, Nell"—(speaking to one of the fugitive maidens + from the Castle)—"but, no—you have not the heart of a cat, and + are afraid of your own shadow by moonlight—But, Cis, you are a + stout-hearted wench, and know a buck from a bullfinch. Hark thee, Cis, as + you would wish to be married, get up to the Castle again, and get thee in—thou + best knowest where—for thou hast oft gotten out of postern to a + dance or junketing, to my knowledge—Get thee back to the Castle, as + ye hope to be married—See my lady—they cannot hinder thee of + that—my lady has a head worth twenty of ours—If I am to gather + force, light up the beacon for a signal; and spare not a tar barrel on't. + Thou mayst do it safe enough. I warrant the Roundheads busy with drink and + plunder.—And, hark thee, say to my lady I am gone down to the + miners' houses at Bonadventure. The rogues were mutinying for their wages + but yesterday; they will be all ready for good or bad. Let her send orders + down to me; or do you come yourself, your legs are long enough." + </p> + <p> + "Whether they are or not, Master Lance (and you know nothing of the + matter), they shall do your errand to-night, for love of the old knight + and his lady." + </p> + <p> + So Cisly Sellok, a kind of Derbyshire Camilla, who had won the smock at + the foot-race at Ashbourne, sprung forward towards the Castle with a speed + which few could have equalled. + </p> + <p> + "There goes a mettled wench," said Lance; "and now, naunt, give me the old + broadsword—it is above the bed-head—and my wood-knife; and I + shall do well enough." + </p> + <p> + "And what is to become of me?" bleated the unfortunate Mistress Deborah + Debbitch. + </p> + <p> + "You must remain here with my aunt, Mistress Deb; and, for old + acquaintance' sake, she will take care no harm befalls you; but take heed + how you attempt to break bounds." + </p> + <p> + So saying, and pondering in his own mind the task which he had undertaken, + the hardy forester strode down the moonlight glade, scarcely hearing the + blessings and cautions which Dame Ellesmere kept showering after him. His + thoughts were not altogether warlike. "What a tight ankle the jade hath!—she + trips it like a doe in summer over dew. Well, but here are the huts—Let + us to this gear.—Are ye all asleep, you dammers, sinkers, and + drift-drivers? turn out, ye subterranean badgers. Here is your master, Sir + Geoffrey, dead, for aught ye know or care. Do not you see the beacon is + unlit, and you sit there like so many asses?" + </p> + <p> + "Why," answered one of the miners, who now began to come out of their huts— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "An he be dead, + He will eat no more bread." +</pre> + <p> + "And you are like to eat none neither," said Lance; "for the works will be + presently stopped, and all of you turned off." + </p> + <p> + "Well, and what of it, Master Lance? As good play for nought as work for + nought. Here is four weeks we have scarce seen the colour of Sir + Geoffrey's coin; and you ask us to care whether he be dead or in life? For + you, that goes about, trotting upon your horse, and doing for work what + all men do for pleasure, it may be well enough; but it is another matter + to be leaving God's light, and burrowing all day and night in darkness, + like a toad in a hole—that's not to be done for nought, I trow; and + if Sir Geoffrey is dead, his soul will suffer for't; and if he's alive, + we'll have him in the Barmoot Court." + </p> + <p> + "Hark ye, gaffer," said Lance, "and take notice, my mates, all of you," + for a considerable number of these rude and subterranean people had now + assembled to hear the discussion—"Has Sir Geoffrey, think you, ever + put a penny in his pouch out of this same Bonadventure mine?" + </p> + <p> + "I cannot say as I think he has," answered old Ditchley, the party who + maintained the controversy. + </p> + <p> + "Answer on your conscience, though it be but a leaden one. Do not you know + that he hath lost a good penny?" + </p> + <p> + "Why, I believe he may," said Gaffer Ditchley. "What then!—lose + to-day, win to-morrow—the miner must eat in the meantime." + </p> + <p> + "True; but what will you eat when Master Bridgenorth gets the land, that + will not hear of a mine being wrought on his own ground? Will he work on + at dead loss, think ye?" demanded trusty Lance. + </p> + <p> + "Bridgenorth?—he of Moultrassie Hall, that stopped the great + Felicity Work, on which his father laid out, some say, ten thousand + pounds, and never got in a penny? Why, what has he to do with Sir + Geoffrey's property down here at Bonadventure? It was never his, I trow." + </p> + <p> + "Nay, what do I know?" answered Lance, who saw the impression he had made. + "Law and debt will give him half Derbyshire, I think, unless you stand by + old Sir Geoffrey." + </p> + <p> + "But if Sir Geoffrey be dead," said Ditchley cautiously, "what good will + our standing by do to him?" + </p> + <p> + "I did not say he was dead, but only as bad as dead; in the hands of the + Roundheads—a prisoner up yonder, at his own Castle," said Lance; + "and will have his head cut off, like the good Earl of Derby's at + Bolton-le-Moors." + </p> + <p> + "Nay, then, comrades," said Gaffer Ditchley, "an it be as Master Lance + says, I think we should bear a hand for stout old Sir Geoffrey, against a + low-born mean-spirited fellow like Bridgenorth, who shut up a shaft had + cost thousands, without getting a penny profit on't. So hurra for Sir + Geoffrey, and down with the Rump! But hold ye a blink—hold"—(and + the waving of his hand stopped the commencing cheer)—"Hark ye, + Master Lance, it must be all over, for the beacon is as black as night; + and you know yourself that marks the Lord's death." + </p> + <p> + "It will kindle again in an instant," said Lance; internally adding, "I + pray to God it may!—It will kindle in an instant—lack of fuel, + and the confusion of the family." + </p> + <p> + "Ay, like enow, like enow," said Ditchley; "but I winna budge till I see + it blazing." + </p> + <p> + "Why then, there a-goes!" said Lance. "Thank thee, Cis—thank thee, + my good wench.—Believe your own eyes, my lads, if you will not + believe me; and now hurra for Peveril of the Peak—the King and his + friends—and down with Rumps and Roundheads!" + </p> + <p> + The sudden rekindling of the beacon had all the effect which Lance could + have desired upon the minds of his rude and ignorant hearers, who, in + their superstitious humour, had strongly associated the Polar-star of + Peveril with the fortunes of the family. Once moved, according to the + national character of their countrymen, they soon became enthusiastic; and + Lance found himself at the head of thirty stout fellows and upwards, armed + with their pick-axes, and ready to execute whatever task he should impose + on them. + </p> + <p> + Trusting to enter the Castle by the postern, which had served to + accommodate himself and other domestics upon an emergency, his only + anxiety was to keep his march silent; and he earnestly recommended to his + followers to reserve their shouts for the moment of the attack. They had + not advanced far on their road to the Castle, when Cisly Sellok met them + so breathless with haste, that the poor girl was obliged to throw herself + into Master Lance's arms. + </p> + <p> + "Stand up, my mettled wench," said he, giving her a sly kiss at the same + time, "and let us know what is going on up at the Castle." + </p> + <p> + "My lady bids you, as you would serve God and your master, not to come up + to the Castle, which can but make bloodshed; for she says Sir Geoffrey is + lawfully in hand, and that he must bide the issue; and that he is innocent + of what he is charged with, and is going up to speak for himself before + King and Council, and she goes up with him. And besides, they have found + out the postern, the Roundhead rogues; for two of them saw me when I went + out of door, and chased me; but I showed them a fair pair of heels." + </p> + <p> + "As ever dashed dew from the cowslip," said Lance. "But what the foul + fiend is to be done? for if they have secured the postern, I know not how + the dickens we can get in." + </p> + <p> + "All is fastened with bolt and staple, and guarded with gun and pistol, at + the Castle," quoth Cisly; "and so sharp are they, that they nigh caught me + coming with my lady's message, as I told you. But my lady says, if you + could deliver her son, Master Julian, from Bridgenorth, that she would + hold it good service." + </p> + <p> + "What!" said Lance, "is young master at the Castle? I taught him to shoot + his first shaft. But how to get in!" + </p> + <p> + "He was at the Castle in the midst of the ruffle, but old Bridgenorth has + carried him down prisoner to the hall," answered Cisly. "There was never + faith nor courtesy in an old Puritan who never had pipe and tabor in his + house since it was built." + </p> + <p> + "Or who stopped a promising mine," said Ditchley, "to save a few thousand + pounds, when he might have made himself as rich as Lord of Chatsworth, and + fed a hundred good fellows all the whilst." + </p> + <p> + "Why, then," said Lance, "since you are all of a mind, we will go draw the + cover for the old badger; and I promise you that the Hall is not like one + of your real houses of quality where the walls are as thick as + whinstone-dikes, but foolish brick-work, that your pick-axes will work + through as if it were cheese. Huzza once more for Peveril of the Peak! + down with Bridgenorth, and all upstart cuckoldly Roundheads!" + </p> + <p> + Having indulged the throats of his followers with one buxom huzza, Lance + commanded them to cease their clamours, and proceeded to conduct them, by + such paths as seemed the least likely to be watched, to the courtyard of + Moultrassie Hall. On the road they were joined by several stout yeoman + farmers, either followers of the Peveril family, or friends to the High + Church and Cavalier party; most of whom, alarmed by the news which began + to fly fast through the neighbourhood, were armed with sword and pistol. + </p> + <p> + Lance Outram halted his party, at the distance, as he himself described + it, of a flight-shot from the house, and advanced, alone, and in silence, + to reconnoitre; and having previously commanded Ditchley and his + subterranean allies to come to his assistance whenever he should whistle, + he crept cautiously forward, and soon found that those whom he came to + surprise, true to the discipline which had gained their party such decided + superiority during the Civil War, had posted a sentinel, who paced through + the courtyard, piously chanting a psalm-tune, while his arms, crossed on + his bosom, supported a gun of formidable length. + </p> + <p> + "Now, a true solder," said Lance Outram to himself, "would put a stop to + thy snivelling ditty, by making a broad arrow quiver in your heart, and no + great alarm given. But, dang it, I have not the right spirit for a soldier—I + cannot fight a man till my blood's up; and for shooting him from behind a + wall it is cruelly like to stalking a deer. I'll e'en face him, and try + what to make of him." + </p> + <p> + With this doughty resolution, and taking no farther care to conceal + himself, he entered the courtyard boldly, and was making forward to the + front door of the hall, as a matter of course. But the old Cromwellian, + who was on guard, had not so learned his duty. "Who goes there?—Stand, + friend—stand; or, verily, I will shoot thee to death!" were + challenges which followed each other quick, the last being enforced by the + levelling and presenting the said long-barrelled gun with which he was + armed. + </p> + <p> + "Why, what a murrain!" answered Lance. "Is it your fashion to go + a-shooting at this time o' night? Why, this is but a time for + bat-fowling." + </p> + <p> + "Nay, but hark thee, friend," said the experienced sentinel, "I am none of + those who do this work negligently. Thou canst not snare me with thy + crafty speech, though thou wouldst make it to sound simple in mine ear. Of + a verity I will shoot, unless thou tell thy name and business." + </p> + <p> + "Name!" said Lance; "why, what a dickens should it be but Robin Round—honest + Robin of Redham; and for business, an you must needs know, I come on a + message from some Parliament man, up yonder at the Castle, with letters + for worshipful Master Bridgenorth of Moultrassie Hall; and this be the + place, as I think; though why ye be marching up and down at his door, like + the sign of a Red Man, with your old firelock there, I cannot so well + guess." + </p> + <p> + "Give me the letters, my friend," said the sentinel, to whom this + explanation seemed very natural and probable, "and I will cause them + forthwith to be delivered into his worship's own hand." + </p> + <p> + Rummaging in his pockets, as if to pull out the letters which never + existed, Master Lance approached within the sentinel's piece, and, before + he was aware, suddenly seized him by the collar, whistled sharp and + shrill, and exerting his skill as a wrestler, for which he had been + distinguished in his youth, he stretched his antagonist on his back—the + musket for which they struggled going off in the fall. + </p> + <p> + The miners rushed into the courtyard at Lance's signal; and hopeless any + longer of prosecuting his design in silence, Lance commanded two of them + to secure the prisoner, and the rest to cheer loudly, and attack the door + of the house. Instantly the courtyard of the mansion rang with the cry of + "Peveril of the Peak for ever!" with all the abuse which the Royalists had + invented to cast upon the Roundheads, during so many years of contention; + and at the same time, while some assailed the door with their mining + implements, others directed their attack against the angle, where a kind + of porch joined to the main front of the building; and there, in some + degree protected by the projection of the wall, and of a balcony which + overhung the porch, wrought in more security, as well as with more effect, + than the others; for the doors being of oak, thickly studded with nails, + offered a more effectual resistance to violence than the brick-work. + </p> + <p> + The noise of this hubbub on the outside, soon excited wild alarm and + tumult within. Lights flew from window to window, and voices were heard + demanding the cause of the attack; to which the party cries of those who + were in the courtyard afforded a sufficient, or at least the only answer, + which was vouchsafed. At length the window of a projecting staircase + opened, and the voice of Bridgenorth himself demanded authoritatively what + the tumult meant, and commanded the rioters to desist, upon their own + proper and immediate peril. + </p> + <p> + "We want our young master, you canting old thief," was the reply; "and if + we have him not instantly, the topmost stone of your house shall lie as + low as the foundation." + </p> + <p> + "We shall try that presently," said Bridgenorth; "for if there is another + blow struck against the walls of my peaceful house, I will fire my + carabine among you, and your blood be upon your own head. I have a score + of friends, well armed with musket and pistol, to defend my house; and we + have both the means and heart, with Heaven's assistance, to repay any + violence you can offer." + </p> + <p> + "Master Bridgenorth," replied Lance, who, though no soldier, was sportsman + enough to comprehend the advantage which those under cover, and using + firearms, must necessarily have over his party, exposed to their aim, in a + great measure, and without means of answering their fire,—"Master + Bridgenorth, let us crave parley with you, and fair conditions. We desire + to do you no evil, but will have back our young master; it is enough that + you have got our old one and his lady. It is foul chasing to kill hart, + hind, and fawn; and we will give you some light on the subject in an + instant." + </p> + <p> + This speech was followed by a great crash amongst the lower windows of the + house, according to a new species of attack which had been suggested by + some of the assailants. + </p> + <p> + "I would take the honest fellow's word, and let young Peveril go," said + one of the garrison, who, carelessly yawning, approached on the inside of + the post at which Bridgenorth had stationed himself. + </p> + <p> + "Are you mad?" said Bridgenorth; "or do you think me poor enough in spirit + to give up the advantages I now possess over the family of Peveril, for + the awe of a parcel of boors, whom the first discharge will scatter like + chaff before the whirlwind?" + </p> + <p> + "Nay," answered the speaker, who was the same individual that had struck + Julian by his resemblance to the man who called himself Ganlesse, "I love + a dire revenge, but we shall buy it somewhat too dear if these rascals set + the house on fire, as they are like to do, while you are parleying from + the window. They have thrown torches or firebrands into the hall; and it + is all our friends can do to keep the flame from catching the wainscoting, + which is old and dry." + </p> + <p> + "Now, may Heaven judge thee for thy lightness of spirit," answered + Bridgenorth; "one would think mischief was so properly thy element, that + to thee it was indifferent whether friend or foe was the sufferer." + </p> + <p> + So saying, he ran hastily downstairs towards the hall, into which, through + broken casements, and betwixt the iron bars, which prevented human + entrance, the assailants had thrust lighted straw, sufficient to excite + much smoke and some fire, and to throw the defenders of the house into + great confusion; insomuch, that of several shots fired hastily from the + windows, little or no damage followed to the besiegers, who, getting warm + on the onset, answered the hostile charges with loud shouts of "Peveril + for ever!" and had already made a practicable breach through the + brick-wall of the tenement, through which Lance, Ditchley, and several of + the most adventurous among their followers, made their way into the hall. + </p> + <p> + The complete capture of the house remained, however, as far off as ever. + The defenders mixed with much coolness and skill that solemn and deep + spirit of enthusiasm which sets life at less than nothing, in comparison + to real or supposed duty. From the half-open doors which led into the + hall, they maintained a fire which began to grow fatal. One miner was shot + dead; three or four were wounded; and Lance scarce knew whether he should + draw his forces from the house, and leave it a prey to the flames, or, + making a desperate attack on the posts occupied by the defenders, try to + obtain unmolested possession of the place. At this moment, his course of + conduct was determined by an unexpected occurrence, of which it is + necessary to trace the cause. + </p> +<div class="fig" style="width:65%;"> + <img src="images/0545m.jpg" alt="0545m " width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <h5> + <a href="images/0545.jpg"><i>Original</i></a> + </h5> + <p> + Julian Peveril had been, like other inhabitants of Moultrassie Hall on + that momentous night, awakened by the report of the sentinel's musket, + followed by the shouts of his father's vassals and followers; of which he + collected enough to guess that Bridgenorth's house was attacked with a + view to his liberation. Very doubtful of the issue of such an attempt, + dizzy with the slumber from which he had been so suddenly awakened, and + confounded with the rapid succession of events to which he had been lately + a witness, he speedily put on a part of his clothes, and hastened to the + window of his apartment. From this he could see nothing to relieve his + anxiety, for it looked towards a quarter different from that on which the + attack was made. He attempted his door; it was locked on the outside; and + his perplexity and anxiety became extreme, when suddenly the lock was + turned, and in an underdress, hastily assumed in the moment of alarm, her + hair streaming on her shoulders, her eyes gleaming betwixt fear and + resolution, Alice Bridgenorth rushed into his apartment, and seized his + hand with the fervent exclamation, "Julian, save my father!" + </p> + <p> + The light which she bore in her hand served to show those features which + could rarely have been viewed by any one without emotion, but which bore + an expression irresistible to a lover. + </p> + <p> + "Alice," he said, "what means this? What is the danger? Where is your + father?" + </p> + <p> + "Do not stay to question," she answered; "but if you would save him, + follow me!" + </p> + <p> + At the same time she led the way, with great speed, half-way down the + turret stair case which led to his room, thence turning through a side + door, along a long gallery, to a larger and wider stair, at the bottom of + which stood her father, surrounded by four or five of his friends, scarce + discernible through the smoke of the fire which began to take hold in the + hall, as well as that which arose from the repeated discharge of their own + firearms. + </p> + <p> + Julian saw there was not a moment to be lost, if he meant to be a + successful mediator. He rushed through Bridgenorth's party ere they were + aware of his approach, and throwing himself amongst the assailants who + occupied the hall in considerable numbers, he assured them of his personal + safety, and conjured them to depart. + </p> + <p> + "Not without a few more slices at the Rump, master," answered Lance. "I am + principally glad to see you safe and well; but here is Joe Rimegap shot as + dead as a buck in season, and more of us are hurt; and we'll have revenge, + and roast the Puritans like apples for lambswool!" + </p> + <p> + "Then you shall roast me along with them," said Julian; "for I vow to God, + I will not leave the hall, being bound by parole of honour to abide with + Major Bridgenorth till lawfully dismissed." + </p> + <p> + "Now out on you, an you were ten times a Peveril!" said Ditchley; "to give + so many honest fellows loss and labour on your behalf, and to show them no + kinder countenance.—I say, beat up the fire, and burn all together!" + </p> + <p> + "Nay, nay; but peace, my masters, and hearken to reason," said Julian; "we + are all here in evil condition, and you will only make it worse by + contention. Do you help to put out this same fire, which will else cost us + all dear. Keep yourselves under arms. Let Master Bridgenorth and me settle + some grounds of accommodation, and I trust all will be favourably made up + on both sides; and if not, you shall have my consent and countenance to + fight it out; and come on it what will, I will never forget this night's + good service." + </p> + <p> + He then drew Ditchley and Lance Outram aside, while the rest stood + suspended at his appearance and words, and expressing the utmost thanks + and gratitude for what they had already done, urged them, as the greatest + favour which they could do towards him and his father's house, to permit + him to negotiate the terms of his emancipation from thraldom; at the same + time forcing on Ditchley five or six gold pieces, that the brave lads of + Bonadventure might drink his health; whilst to Lance he expressed the + warmest sense of his active kindness, but protested he could only consider + it as good service to his house, if he was allowed to manage the matter + after his own fashion. + </p> + <p> + "Why," answered Lance, "I am well out on it, Master Julian; for it is + matter beyond my mastery. All that I stand to is, that I will see you safe + out of this same Moultrassie Hall; for our old Naunt Ellesmere will else + give me but cold comfort when I come home. Truth is, I began unwillingly; + but when I saw the poor fellow Joe shot beside me, why, I thought we + should have some amends. But I put it all in your Honour's hands." + </p> + <p> + During this colloquy both parties had been amicably employed in + extinguishing the fire, which might otherwise have been fatal to all. It + required a general effort to get it under; and both parties agreed on the + necessary labour, with as much unanimity, as if the water they brought in + leathern buckets from the well to throw upon the fire, had some effect in + slaking their mutual hostility. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0026" id="link2HCH0026"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXVI + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Necessity—thou best of peacemakers, + As well as surest prompter of invention— + Help us to composition! + —ANONYMOUS. +</pre> + <p> + While the fire continued, the two parties laboured in active union, like + the jarring factions of the Jews during the siege of Jerusalem, when + compelled to unite in resisting an assault of the besiegers. But when the + last bucket of water had hissed on the few embers that continued to + glimmer—when the sense of mutual hostility, hitherto suspended by a + feeling of common danger, was in its turn rekindled—the parties, + mingled as they had hitherto been in one common exertion, drew off from + each other, and began to arrange themselves at opposite sides of the hall, + and handle their weapons, as if for a renewal of the fight. + </p> + <p> + Bridgenorth interrupted any farther progress of this menaced hostility. + "Julian Peveril," he said, "thou art free to walk thine own path, since + thou wilt not walk with me that road which is more safe, as well as more + honourable. But if you do by my counsel, you will get soon beyond the + British seas." + </p> + <p> + "Ralph Bridgenorth," said one of his friends, "this is but evil and feeble + conduct on thine own part. Wilt thou withhold thy hand from the battle, to + defend, from these sons of Belial, the captive of thy bow and of thy + spear? Surely we are enow to deal with them in the security of the old + serpent, until we essay whether the Lord will not give us victory + therein." + </p> + <p> + A hum of stern assent followed; and had not Ganlesse now interfered, the + combat would probably have been renewed. He took the advocate for war + apart into one of the window recesses, and apparently satisfied his + objections; for as he returned to his companions, he said to them, "Our + friend hath so well argued this matter, that, verily, since he is of the + same mind with the worthy Major Bridgenorth, I think the youth may be set + at liberty." + </p> + <p> + As no farther objection was offered, it only remained with Julian to thank + and reward those who had been active in his assistance. Having first + obtained from Bridgenorth a promise of indemnity to them for the riot they + had committed, a few kind words conveyed his sense of their services; and + some broad pieces, thrust into the hand of Lance Outram, furnished the + means for affording them a holiday. They would have remained to protect + him, but, fearful of farther disorder, and relying entirely on the good + faith of Major Bridgenorth, he dismissed them all except Lance, whom he + detained to attend upon him for a few minutes, till he should depart from + Moultrassie. But ere leaving the Hall, he could not repress his desire to + speak with Bridgenorth in secret; and advancing towards him, he expressed + such a desire. + </p> + <p> + Tacitly granting what was asked of him, Bridgenorth led the way to a small + summer saloon adjoining to the Hall, where, with his usual gravity and + indifference of manner, he seemed to await in silence what Peveril had to + communicate. + </p> + <p> + Julian found it difficult, where so little opening was afforded him, to + find a tone in which to open the subjects he had at heart, that should be + at once dignified and conciliating. "Major Bridgenorth," he said at + length, "you have been a son, and an affectionate one—You may + conceive my present anxiety—My father!—What has been designed + for him?" + </p> + <p> + "What the law will," answered Bridgenorth. "Had he walked by the counsels + which I procured to be given to him, he might have dwelt safely in the + house of his ancestors. His fate is now beyond my control—far beyond + yours. It must be with him as his country decide." + </p> + <p> + "And my mother?" said Peveril. + </p> + <p> + "Will consult, as she has ever done, her own duty; and create her own + happiness by doing so," replied Bridgenorth. "Believe, my designs towards + your family are better than they may seem through the mist which adversity + has spread around your house. I may triumph as a man; but as a man I must + also remember, in my hour, that mine enemies have had theirs.—Have + you aught else to say?" he added, after a momentary pause. "You have + rejected once, yea, and again, the hand I stretched out to you. Methinks + little more remains between us." + </p> + <p> + These words, which seemed to cut short farther discussion, were calmly + spoken; so that though they appeared to discourage farther question, they + could not interrupt that which still trembled on Julian's tongue. He made + a step or two towards the door; then suddenly returned. "Your daughter?" + he said—"Major Bridgenorth—I should ask—I <i>do</i> ask + forgiveness for mentioning her name—but may I not inquire after her?—May + I not express my wishes for her future happiness?" + </p> + <p> + "Your interest in her is but too flattering," said Bridgenorth; "but you + have already chosen your part; and you must be, in future, strangers to + each other. I may have wished it otherwise, but the hour of grace is + passed, during which your compliance with my advice might—I will + speak it plainly—have led to your union. For her happiness—if + such a word belongs to mortal pilgrimage—I shall care for it + sufficiently. She leaves this place to-day, under the guardianship of a + sure friend." + </p> + <p> + "Not of——?" exclaimed Peveril, and stopped short; for he felt + he had no right to pronounce the name which came to his lips. + </p> + <p> + "Why do you pause?" said Bridgenorth; "a sudden thought is often a wise, + almost always an honest one. With whom did you suppose I meant to entrust + my child, that the idea called forth so anxious an expression?" + </p> + <p> + "Again I should ask your forgiveness," said Julian, "for meddling where I + have little right to interfere. But I saw a face here that is known to me—the + person calls himself Ganlesse—Is it with him that you mean to + entrust your daughter?" + </p> + <p> + "Even to the person who call himself Ganlesse," said Bridgenorth, without + expressing either anger or surprise. + </p> + <p> + "And do you know to whom you commit a charge so precious to all who know + her, and so dear to yourself?" said Julian. + </p> + <p> + "Do <i>you</i> know, who ask me the question?" answered Bridgenorth. + </p> + <p> + "I own I do not," answered Julian; "but I have seen him in a character so + different from that he now wears, that I feel it my duty to warn you, how + you entrust the charge of your child to one who can alternately play the + profligate or the hypocrite, as it suits his own interest or humour." + </p> + <p> + Bridgenorth smiled contemptuously. "I might be angry," he said, "with the + officious zeal which supposes that its green conceptions can instruct my + grey hairs; but, good Julian, I do but only ask from you the liberal + construction, that I, who have had much converse with mankind, know with + whom I trust what is dearest to me. He of whom thou speakest hath one + visage to his friends, though he may have others to the world, living + amongst those before whom honest features should be concealed under a + grotesque vizard; even as in the sinful sports of the day, called maskings + and mummeries, where the wise, if he show himself at all, must be + contented to play the apish and fantastic fool." + </p> + <p> + "I would only pray your wisdom to beware," said Julian, "of one, who, as + he has a vizard for others, may also have one which can disguise his real + features from you yourself." + </p> + <p> + "This is being over careful, young man," replied Bridgenorth, more shortly + than he had hitherto spoken; "if you would walk by my counsel, you will + attend to your own affairs, which, credit me, deserve all your care, and + leave others to the management of theirs." + </p> + <p> + This was too plain to be misunderstood; and Peveril was compelled to take + his leave of Bridgenorth, and of Moultrassie Hall, without farther parley + or explanation. The reader may imagine how oft he looked back, and tried + to guess, amongst the lights which continued to twinkle in various parts + of the building, which sparkle it was that gleamed from the bower of + Alice. When the road turned into another direction, he sunk into deep + reverie, from which he was at length roused by the voice of Lance, who + demanded where he intended to quarter for the night. He was unprepared to + answer the question, but the honest keeper himself prompted a solution of + the problem, by requesting that he would occupy a spare bed in the Lodge; + to which Julian willingly agreed. The rest of the inhabitants had retired + to rest when they entered; but Dame Ellesmere, apprised by a messenger of + her nephew's hospitable intent, had everything in the best readiness she + could, for the son of her ancient patron. Peveril betook himself to rest; + and, notwithstanding so many subjects of anxiety, slept soundly till the + morning was far advanced. + </p> + <p> + His slumbers were first broken by Lance, who had been long up, and already + active in his service. He informed him, that his horse, arms, and small + cloak-bag had been sent from the Castle by one of Major Bridgenorth's + servants, who brought a letter, discharging from the Major's service the + unfortunate Deborah Debbitch, and prohibiting her return to the Hall. The + officer of the House of Commons, escorted by a strong guard, had left + Martindale Castle that morning early, travelling in Sir Geoffrey's + carriage—his lady being also permitted to attend on him. To this he + had to add, that the property at the Castle was taken possession of by + Master Win-the-fight, the attorney, from Chesterfield, with other officers + of law, in name of Major Bridgenorth, a large creditor of the unfortunate + knight. + </p> + <p> + Having told these Job's tidings, Lance paused; and, after a moment's + hesitation, declared he was resolved to quit the country, and go up to + London along with his young master. Julian argued the point with him; and + insisted he had better stay to take charge of his aunt, in case she should + be disturbed by these strangers. Lance replied, "She would have one with + her, who would protect her well enough; for there was wherewithal to buy + protection amongst them. But for himself, he was resolved to follow Master + Julian to the death." + </p> + <p> + Julian heartily thanked him for his love. + </p> + <p> + "Nay, it is not altogether out of love neither," said Lance, "though I am + as loving as another; but it is, as it were, partly out of fear, lest I be + called over the coals for last night's matter; for as for the miners, they + will never trouble them, as the creatures only act after their kind." + </p> + <p> + "I will write in your behalf to Major Bridgenorth, who is bound to afford + you protection, if you have such fear," said Julian. + </p> + <p> + "Nay, for that matter, it is not altogether fear, more than altogether + love," answered the enigmatical keeper, "although it hath a tasting of + both in it. And, to speak plain truth, thus it is—Dame Debbitch and + Naunt Ellesmere have resolved to set up their horses together, and have + made up all their quarrels. And of all ghosts in the world, the worst is, + when an old true-love comes back to haunt a poor fellow like me. Mistress + Deborah, though distressed enow for the loss of her place, has been + already speaking of a broken sixpence, or some such token, as if a man + could remember such things for so many years, even if she had not gone + over seas, like woodcock, in the meanwhile." + </p> + <p> + Julian could scarce forbear laughing. "I thought you too much of a man, + Lance, to fear a woman marrying you whether you would or no." + </p> + <p> + "It has been many an honest man's luck, for all that," said Lance; "and a + woman in the very house has so many deuced opportunities. And then there + would be two upon one; for Naunt, though high enough when any of <i>your</i> + folks are concerned, hath some look to the main chance; and it seems + Mistress Deb is as rich as a Jew." + </p> + <p> + "And you, Lance," said Julian, "have no mind to marry for cake and + pudding." + </p> + <p> + "No, truly, master," answered Lance, "unless I knew of what dough they + were baked. How the devil do I know how the jade came by so much? And then + if she speaks of tokens and love-passages, let her be the same tight lass + I broke the sixpence with, and I will be the same true lad to her. But I + never heard of true love lasting ten years; and hers, if it lives at all, + must be nearer twenty." + </p> + <p> + "Well, then, Lance," said Julian, "since you are resolved on the thing, we + will go to London together; where, if I cannot retain you in my service, + and if my father recovers not these misfortunes, I will endeavour to + promote you elsewhere." + </p> + <p> + "Nay, nay," said Lance, "I trust to be back to bonny Martindale before it + is long, and to keep the greenwood, as I have been wont to do; for, as to + Dame Debbitch, when they have not me for their common butt, Naunt and she + will soon bend bows on each other. So here comes old Dame Ellesmere with + your breakfast. I will but give some directions about the deer to Rough + Ralph, my helper, and saddle my forest pony, and your honour's horse, + which is no prime one, and we will be ready to trot." + </p> + <p> + Julian was not sorry for this addition to his establishment; for Lance had + shown himself, on the preceding evening, a shrewd and bold fellow, and + attached to his master. He therefore set himself to reconcile his aunt to + parting with her nephew for some time. Her unlimited devotion for "the + family," readily induced the old lady to acquiesce in his proposal, though + not without a gentle sigh over the ruins of a castle in the air, which was + founded on the well-saved purse of Mistress Deborah Debbitch. "At any + rate," she thought, "it was as well that Lance should be out of the way of + that bold, long-legged, beggarly trollop, Cis Sellok." But to poor Deb + herself, the expatriation of Lance, whom she had looked to as a sailor to + a port under his lee, for which he can run, if weather becomes foul, was a + second severe blow, following close on her dismissal from the profitable + service of Major Bridgenorth. + </p> + <p> + Julian visited the disconsolate damsel, in hopes of gaining some light + upon Bridgenorth's projects regarding his daughter—the character of + this Ganlesse—and other matters, with which her residence in the + family might have made her acquainted; but he found her by far too much + troubled in mind to afford him the least information. The name of Ganlesse + she did not seem to recollect—that of Alice rendered her hysterical—that + of Bridgenorth, furious. She numbered up the various services she had + rendered in the family—and denounced the plague of swartness to the + linen—of leanness to the poultry—of dearth and dishonour to + the housekeeping—and of lingering sickness and early death to Alice;—all + which evils, she averred, had only been kept off by her continued, + watchful, and incessant cares.—Then again turning to the subject of + the fugitive Lance, she expressed such a total contempt of that + mean-spirited fellow, in a tone between laughing and crying, as satisfied + Julian it was not a topic likely to act as a sedative; and that, + therefore, unless he made a longer stay than the urgent state of his + affairs permitted, he was not likely to find Mistress Deborah in such a + state of composure as might enable him to obtain from her any rational or + useful information. + </p> + <p> + Lance, who good-naturedly took upon himself the whole burden of Dame + Debbitch's mental alienation, or "taking on," as such fits of <i>passio + hysterica</i> are usually termed in the country, had too much feeling to + present himself before the victim of her own sensibility, and of his + obduracy. He therefore intimated to Julian, by his assistant Ralph, that + the horses stood saddled behind the Lodge, and that all was ready for + their departure. + </p> + <p> + Julian took the hint, and they were soon mounted, and clearing the road, + at a rapid trot, in the direction of London; but not by the most usual + route. Julian calculated that the carriage in which his father was + transported would travel slowly; and it was his purpose, if possible, to + get to London before it should arrive there, in order to have time to + consult, with the friends of his family, what measures should be taken in + his father's behalf. + </p> + <p> + In this manner they advanced a day's journey towards London; at the + conclusion of which, Julian found his resting-place in a small inn upon + the road. No one came, at the first call, to attend upon the guests and + their horses, although the house was well lighted up; and there was a + prodigious chattering in the kitchen, such as can only be produced by a + French cook when his mystery is in the very moment of projection. It + instantly occurred to Julian—so rare was the ministry of these + Gallic artists at that time—that the clamour he heard must + necessarily be produced by the Sieur Chaubert, on whose <i>plats</i> he + had lately feasted, along with Smith and Ganlesse. + </p> + <p> + One, or both of these, were therefore probably in the little inn; and if + so, he might have some opportunity to discover their real purpose and + character. How to avail himself of such a meeting he knew not; but chance + favoured him more than he could have expected. + </p> + <p> + "I can scarce receive you, gentlefolks," said the landlord, who at length + appeared at the door; "here be a sort of quality in my house to-night, + whom less than all will not satisfy; nor all neither, for that matter." + </p> + <p> + "We are but plain fellows, landlord," said Julian; "we are bound for + Moseley-market, and can get no farther to-night. Any hole will serve us, + no matter what." + </p> + <p> + "Why," said the honest host, "if that be the case, I must e'en put one of + you behind the bar, though the gentlemen have desired to be private; the + other must take heart of grace and help me at the tap." + </p> + <p> + "The tap for me," said Lance, without waiting his master's decision. "It + is an element which I could live and die in." + </p> + <p> + "The bar, then, for me," said Peveril; and stepping back, whispered to + Lance to exchange cloaks with him, desirous, if possible, to avoid being + recognised. + </p> + <p> + The exchange was made in an instant; and presently afterwards the landlord + brought a light; and as he guided Julian into his hostelry, cautioned him + to sit quiet in the place where he should stow him; and if he was + discovered, to say that he was one of the house, and leave him to make it + good. "You will hear what the gallants say," he added; "but I think thou + wilt carry away but little on it; for when it is not French, it is Court + gibberish; and that is as hard to construe." + </p> + <p> + The bar, into which our hero was inducted on these conditions, seemed + formed, with respect to the public room, upon the principle of a citadel, + intended to observe and bridle a rebellious capital. Here sat the host on + the Saturday evenings, screened from the observation of his guests, yet + with the power of observing both their wants and their behaviour, and also + that of overhearing their conversation—a practice which he was much + addicted to, being one of that numerous class of philanthropists, to whom + their neighbours' business is of as much consequence, or rather more, than + their own. + </p> + <p> + Here he planted his new guest, with a repeated caution not to disturb the + gentlemen by speech or motion; and a promise that he should be speedily + accommodated with a cold buttock of beef, and a tankard of home-brewed. + And here he left him with no other light than that which glimmered from + the well-illuminated apartment within, through a sort of shuttle which + accommodated the landlord with a view into it. + </p> + <p> + This situation, inconvenient enough in itself, was, on the present + occasion, precisely what Julian would have selected. He wrapped himself in + the weather-beaten cloak of Lance Outram, which had been stained, by age + and weather, into a thousand variations from its original Lincoln green; + and with as little noise as he could, set himself to observe the two + inmates, who had engrossed to themselves the whole of the apartment, which + was usually open to the public. They sat by a table well covered with such + costly rarities, as could only have been procured by much forecast, and + prepared by the exquisite Mons. Chaubert; to which both seemed to do much + justice. + </p> + <p> + Julian had little difficulty in ascertaining, that one of the travellers + was, as he had anticipated, the master of the said Chaubert, or, as he was + called by Ganlesse, Smith; the other, who faced him, he had never seen + before. This last was dressed like a gallant of the first order. His + periwig, indeed, as he travelled on horseback, did not much exceed in size + the bar-wig of a modern lawyer; but then the essence which he shook from + it with every motion, impregnated a whole apartment, which was usually + only perfumed by that vulgar herb, tobacco. His riding-coat was laced in + the newest and most courtly style; and Grammont himself might have envied + the embroidery of his waistcoat, and the peculiar cut of his breeches, + which buttoned above the knee, permitting the shape of a very handsome leg + to be completely seen. This, by the proprietor thereof, had been stretched + out upon a stool, and he contemplated its proportions, from time to time, + with infinite satisfaction. + </p> + <p> + The conversation between these worthies was so interesting, that we + propose to assign to it another chapter. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0027" id="link2HCH0027"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXVII + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + ——This is some creature of the elements, + Most like your sea-gull. He can wheel and whistle + His screaming song, e'en when the storm is loudest— + Take for his sheeted couch the restless foam + Of the wild wave-crest—slumber in the calm, + And daily with the storm. Yet 'tis a gull, + An arrant gull, with all this. + —THE CHAMPION. +</pre> + <p> + "And here is to thee," said the fashionable gallant whom we have + described, "honest Tom; and a cup of welcome to thee out of Looby-land. + Why, thou hast been so long in the country, that thou hast got a bumpkinly + clod-compelling sort of look thyself. That greasy doublet fits thee as if + it were thy reserved Sunday's apparel; and the points seem as if they were + stay-laces bought for thy true-love Marjory. I marvel thou canst still + relish a ragout. Methinks now, to a stomach bound in such a jacket, eggs + and bacon were a diet more conforming." + </p> + <p> + "Rally away, my good lord, while wit lasts," answered his companion; + "yours is not the sort of ammunition which will bear much expenditure. Or + rather, tell me news from Court, since we have met so opportunely." + </p> + <p> + "You would have asked me these an hour ago," said the lord, "had not your + very soul been under Chaubert's covered dishes. You remembered King's + affairs will keep cool, and <i>entre-mets</i> must be eaten hot." + </p> + <p> + "Not so, my lord; I only kept common talk whilst that eavesdropping rascal + of a landlord was in the room; so that, now the coast is clear once more, + I pray you for news from Court." + </p> + <p> + "The Plot is nonsuited," answered the courtier—"Sir George Wakeman + acquitted—the witnesses discredited by the jury—Scroggs, who + ranted on one side, is now ranting on t'other." + </p> + <p> + "Rat the Plot, Wakeman, witnesses, Papists, and Protestants, all together! + Do you think I care for such trash as that?—Till the Plot comes up + the Palace backstair, and gets possession of old Rowley's own imagination, + I care not a farthing who believes or disbelieves. I hang by him will bear + me out." + </p> + <p> + "Well, then," said the lord, "the next news is Rochester's disgrace." + </p> + <p> + "Disgraced!—How, and for what? The morning I came off he stood as + fair as any one." + </p> + <p> + "That's over—the epitaph[*] has broken his neck—and now he may + write one for his own Court favour, for it is dead and buried." + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +[*] The epitaph alluded to is the celebrated epigram made by Rochester + on Charles II. It was composed at the King's request, who + nevertheless resented its poignancy. + + The lines are well known:— + + "Here lies our sovereign lord the King, + Whose word no man relies on, + Who never said a foolish thing, + And never did a wise one." +</pre> + <p> + "The epitaph!" exclaimed Tom; "why, I was by when it was made; and it + passed for an excellent good jest with him whom it was made upon." + </p> + <p> + "Ay, so it did amongst ourselves," answered his companion; "but it got + abroad, and had a run like a mill-race. It was in every coffee-house, and + in half the diurnals. Grammont translated it into French too; and there is + no laughing at so sharp a jest, when it is dinned into your ears on all + sides. So disgraced is the author; and but for his Grace of Buckingham, + the Court would be as dull as my Lord Chancellor's wig." + </p> + <p> + "Or as the head it covers.—Well, my lord, the fewer at Court, there + is the more room for those that can bustle there. But there are two + mainstrings of Shaftesbury's fiddle broken—the Popish Plot fallen + into discredit—and Rochester disgraced. Changeful times—but + here is to the little man who shall mend them." + </p> + <p> + "I apprehend you," replied his lordship; "and meet your health with my + love. Trust me, my lord loves you, and longs for you.—Nay, I have + done you reason.—By your leave, the cup is with me. Here is to his + buxom Grace of Bucks." + </p> + <p> + "As blithe a peer," said Smith, "as ever turned night to day. Nay, it + shall be an overflowing bumper, an you will; and I will drink it <i>super + naculum</i>.—And how stands the great Madam?"[*] + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +[*] The Duchess of Portsmouth, Charles II.'s favourite mistress; very + unpopular at the time of the Popish Plot, as well from her + religion as her country, being a Frenchwoman and a Catholic. +</pre> + <p> + "Stoutly against all change," answered the lord—"Little Anthony[*] + can make nought of her." + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +[*] Anthony Ashley Cooper, Earl of Shaftesbury, the politician and + intriguer of the period. +</pre> + <p> + "Then he shall bring her influence to nought. Hark in thine ear. Thou + knowest——" (Here he whispered so low that Julian could not + catch the sound.) + </p> + <p> + "Know him?" answered the other—"Know Ned of the Island?—To be + sure I do." + </p> + <p> + "He is the man that shall knot the great fiddle-strings that have snapped. + Say I told you so; and thereupon I give thee his health." + </p> + <p> + "And thereupon I pledge thee," said the young nobleman, "which on any + other argument I were loath to do—thinking of Ned as somewhat the + cut of a villain." + </p> + <p> + "Granted, man—granted," said the other,—"a very thorough-paced + rascal; but able, my lord, able and necessary; and, in this plan, + indispensable.—Pshaw!—This champagne turns stronger as it gets + older, I think." + </p> + <p> + "Hark, mine honest fellow," said the courtier; "I would thou wouldst give + me some item of all this mystery. Thou hast it, I know; for whom do men + entrust but trusty Chiffinch?" + </p> + <p> + "It is your pleasure to say so, my lord," answered Smith (whom we shall + hereafter call by his real name of Chiffinch) with such drunken gravity, + for his speech had become a little altered by his copious libations in the + course of the evening,—"few men know more, or say less, than I do; + and it well becomes my station. <i>Conticuere omnes</i>, as the grammar + hath it—all men should learn to hold their tongue." + </p> + <p> + "Except with a friend, Tom—except with a friend. Thou wilt never be + such a dogbolt as to refuse a hint to a friend? Come, you get too wise and + statesman-like for your office.—The ligatures of thy most peasantly + jacket there are like to burst with thy secret. Come, undo a button, man; + it is for the health of thy constitution—Let out a reef; and let thy + chosen friend know what is meditating. Thou knowest I am as true as + thyself to little Anthony, if he can but get uppermost." + </p> + <p> + "<i>If</i>, thou lordly infidel!" said Chiffinch—"talk'st thou to me + of <i>ifs?</i>—There is neither <i>if</i> nor <i>and</i> in the + matter. The great Madam shall be pulled a peg down—the great Plot + screwed a peg or two up. Thou knowest Ned?—Honest Ned had a + brother's death to revenge." + </p> + <p> + "I have heard so," said the nobleman; "and that his persevering resentment + of that injury was one of the few points which seemed to be a sort of + heathenish virtue in him." + </p> + <p> + "Well," continued Chiffinch, "in manoeuvring to bring about this revenge, + which he hath laboured at many a day, he hath discovered a treasure." + </p> + <p> + "What!—In the Isle of Man?" said his companion. + </p> + <p> + "Assure yourself of it.—She is a creature so lovely, that she needs + but be seen to put down every one of the favourites, from Portsmouth and + Cleveland down to that threepenny baggage, Mistress Nelly." + </p> + <p> + "By my word, Chiffinch," said my lord, "that is a reinforcement after the + fashion of thine own best tactics. But bethink thee, man! To make such a + conquest, there wants more than a cherry-cheek and a bright eye—there + must be wit—wit, man, and manners, and a little sense besides, to + keep influence when it is gotten." + </p> + <p> + "Pshaw! will you tell me what goes to this vocation?" said Chiffinch. + "Here, pledge me her health in a brimmer.—Nay, you shall do it on + knees, too.—Never such a triumphant beauty was seen—I went to + church on purpose, for the first time these ten years—Yet I lie, it + was not to church neither—it was to chapel." + </p> + <p> + "To chapel!—What the devil, is she a Puritan?" exclaimed the other + courtier. + </p> + <p> + "To be sure she is. Do you think I would be accessory to bringing a Papist + into favour in these times, when, as my good Lord said in the House, there + should not be a Popish manservant, nor a Popish maid-servant, not so much + as dog or cat, left to bark or mew about the King!"[*] + </p> + <p> + [*] Such was the extravagance of Shaftesbury's eloquence. + </p> + <p> + "But consider, Chiffie, the dislikelihood of her pleasing," said the noble + courtier.—"What! old Rowley, with his wit, and love of wit—his + wildness, and love of wildness—he form a league with a silly, + scrupulous, unidea'd Puritan!—Not if she were Venus." + </p> + <p> + "Thou knowest nought of the matter," answered Chiffinch. "I tell thee, the + fine contrast between the seeming saint and falling sinner will give zest + to the old gentleman's inclination. If I do not know him, who does?—Her + health, my lord, on your bare knee, as you would live to be of the + bedchamber." + </p> + <p> + "I pledge you most devoutly," answered his friend. "But you have not told + me how the acquaintance is to be made; for you cannot, I think, carry her + to Whitehall." + </p> + <p> + "Aha, my dear lord, you would have the whole secret! but that I cannot + afford—I can spare a friend a peep at my ends, but no one must look + on the means by which they are achieved."—So saying, he shook his + drunken head most wisely. + </p> + <p> + The villainous design which this discourse implied, and which his heart + told him was designed against Alice Bridgenorth, stirred Julian so + extremely, that he involuntarily shifted his posture, and laid his hand on + his sword hilt. + </p> + <p> + Chiffinch heard a rustling, and broke off, exclaiming, "Hark!—Zounds, + something moved—I trust I have told the tale to no ears but thine." + </p> + <p> + "I will cut off any which have drunk in but a syllable of thy words," said + the nobleman; and raising a candle, he took a hasty survey of the + apartment. Seeing nothing that could incur his menaced resentment, he + replaced the light and continued:—"Well, suppose the Belle Louise de + Querouaille[*] shoots from her high station in the firmament, how will you + rear up the downfallen Plot again—for without that same Plot, think + of it as thou wilt, we have no change of hands—and matters remain as + they were, with a Protestant courtezan instead of a Papist—Little + Anthony can but little speed without that Plot of his—I believe, in + my conscience, he begot it himself."[+] + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +[*] Charles's principal mistress <i>en titre</i>. She was created Duchess + of Portsmouth. +</pre> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +[+] Shaftesbury himself is supposed to have said that he knew not who + was the inventor of the Plot, but that he himself had all the + advantage of the discovery. +</pre> + <p> + "Whoever begot it," said Chiffinch, "he hath adopted it; and a thriving + babe it has been to him. Well, then, though it lies out of my way, I will + play Saint Peter again—up with t'other key, and unlock t'other + mystery." + </p> + <p> + "Now thou speakest like a good fellow; and I will, with my own hands, + unwire this fresh flask, to begin a brimmer to the success of thy + achievement." + </p> + <p> + "Well, then," continued the communicative Chiffinch, "thou knowest that + they have long had a nibbling at the old Countess of Derby.—So Ned + was sent down—he owes her an old accompt, thou knowest—with + private instructions to possess himself of the island, if he could, by + help of some of his old friends. He hath ever kept up spies upon her; and + happy man was he, to think his hour of vengeance was come so nigh. But he + missed his blow; and the old girl being placed on her guard, was soon in a + condition to make Ned smoke for it. Out of the island he came with little + advantage for having entered it; when, by some means—for the devil, + I think, stands ever his friend—he obtained information concerning a + messenger, whom her old Majesty of Man had sent to London to make party in + her behalf. Ned stuck himself to this fellow—a raw, half-bred lad, + son of an old blundering Cavalier of the old stamp, down in Derbyshire—and + so managed the swain, that he brought him to the place where I was + waiting, in anxious expectation of the pretty one I told you of. By Saint + Anthony, for I will swear by no meaner oath, I stared when I saw this + great lout—not that the fellow is so ill-looked neither—I + stared like—like—good now, help me to a simile." + </p> + <p> + "Like Saint Anthony's pig, an it were sleek," said the young lord; "your + eyes, Chiffie, have the very blink of one. But what hath all this to do + with the Plot? Hold, I have had wine enough." + </p> + <p> + "You shall not balk me," said Chiffinch; and a jingling was heard, as if + he were filling his comrade's glass with a very unsteady hand. "Hey—What + the devil is the matter?—I used to carry my glass steady—very + steady." + </p> + <p> + "Well, but this stranger?" + </p> + <p> + "Why, he swept at game and ragout as he would at spring beef or summer + mutton. Never saw so unnurtured a cub—Knew no more what he ate than + an infidel—I cursed him by my gods when I saw Chaubert's <i>chef-d' + oeuvres</i> glutted down so indifferent a throat. We took the freedom to + spice his goblet a little, and ease him of his packet of letters; and the + fool went on his way the next morning with a budget artificially filled + with grey paper. Ned would have kept him, in hopes to have made a witness + of him, but the boy was not of that mettle." + </p> + <p> + "How will you prove your letters?" said the courtier. + </p> + <p> + "La you there, my lord," said Chiffinch; "one may see with half an eye, + for all your laced doublet, that you have been of the family of + Furnival's, before your brother's death sent you to Court. How prove the + letters?—Why, we have but let the sparrow fly with a string round + his foot.—We have him again so soon as we list." + </p> + <p> + "Why, thou art turned a very Machiavel, Chiffinch," said his friend. "But + how if the youth proved restive?—I have heard these Peak men have + hot heads and hard hands." + </p> + <p> + "Trouble not yourself—that was cared for, my lord," said Chiffinch—"his + pistols might bark, but they could not bite." + </p> + <p> + "Most exquisite Chiffinch, thou art turned micher as well as padder—Canst + both rob a man and kidnap him!" + </p> + <p> + "Micher and padder—what terms be these?" said Chiffinch. "Methinks + these are sounds to lug out upon. You will have me angry to the degree of + falling foul—robber and kidnapper!" + </p> + <p> + "You mistake verb for noun-substantive," replied his lordship; "I said <i>rob</i> + and <i>kidnap</i>—a man may do either once and away without being + professional." + </p> + <p> + "But not without spilling a little foolish noble blood, or some such + red-coloured gear," said Chiffinch, starting up. + </p> + <p> + "Oh yes," said his lordship; "all this may be without these dire + consequences, and as you will find to-morrow, when you return to England; + for at present you are in the land of Champagne, Chiffie; and that you may + continue so, I drink thee this parting cup to line thy nightcap." + </p> + <p> + "I do not refuse your pledge," said Chiffinch; "but I drink to thee in + dudgeon and in hostility—It is cup of wrath, and a gage of battle. + To-morrow, by dawn, I will have thee at point of fox, wert thou the last + of the Savilles.—What the devil! think you I fear you because you + are a lord?" + </p> + <p> + "Not so, Chiffinch," answered his companion. "I know thou fearest nothing + but beans and bacon, washed down with bumpkin-like beer.—Adieu, + sweet Chiffinch—to bed—Chiffinch—to bed." + </p> + <p> + So saying, he lifted a candle, and left the apartment. And Chiffinch, whom + the last draught had nearly overpowered, had just strength enough left to + do the same, muttering, as he staggered out, "Yes, he shall answer it.—Dawn + of day? D—n me—It is come already—Yonder's the dawn—No, + d—n me, 'tis the fire glancing on the cursed red lattice—It is + the smell of the brandy in this cursed room—It could not be the wine—Well, + old Rowley shall send me no more errands to the country again—Steady, + steady." + </p> + <p> + So saying, he reeled out of the apartment, leaving Peveril to think over + the extraordinary conversation he had just heard. + </p> + <p> + The name of Chiffinch, the well-known minister of Charles's pleasures, was + nearly allied to the part which he seemed about to play in the present + intrigue; but that Christian, whom he had always supposed a Puritan as + strict as his brother-in-law, Bridgenorth, should be associated with him + in a plot so infamous, seemed alike unnatural and monstrous. The near + relationship might blind Bridgenorth, and warrant him in confiding his + daughter to such a man's charge; but what a wretch he must be, that could + coolly meditate such an ignominious abuse of his trust! In doubt whether + he could credit for a moment the tale which Chiffinch had revealed, he + hastily examined his packet, and found that the sealskin case in which it + had been wrapt up, now only contained an equal quantity of waste paper. If + he had wanted farther confirmation, the failure of the shot which he fired + at Bridgenorth, and of which the wadding only struck him, showed that his + arms had been tampered with. He examined the pistol which still remained + charged, and found that the ball had been drawn. "May I perish," said he + to himself, "amid these villainous intrigues, but thou shalt be more + surely loaded, and to better purpose! The contents of these papers may + undo my benefactress—their having been found on me, may ruin my + father—that I have been the bearer of them, may cost, in these fiery + times, my own life—that I care least for—they form a branch of + the scheme laid against the honour and happiness of a creature so + innocent, that it is almost sin to think of her within the neighbourhood + of such infamous knaves. I will recover the letters at all risks—But + how?—that is to be thought on.—Lance is stout and trusty; and + when a bold deed is once resolved upon, there never yet lacked the means + of executing it." + </p> + <p> + His host now entered, with an apology for his long absence; and after + providing Peveril with some refreshments, invited him to accept, for his + night-quarters, the accommodation of a remote hayloft, which he was to + share with his comrade; professing, at the same time, he could hardly have + afforded them this courtesy, but out of deference to the exquisite talents + of Lance Outram, as assistant at the tap; where, indeed, it seems probable + that he, as well as the admiring landlord, did that evening contrive to + drink nearly as much liquor as they drew. + </p> + <p> + But Lance was a seasoned vessel, on whom liquor made no lasting + impression; so that when Peveril awaked that trusty follower at dawn, he + found him cool enough to comprehend and enter into the design which he + expressed, of recovering the letters which had been abstracted from his + person. + </p> + <p> + Having considered the whole matter with much attention, Lance shrugged, + grinned, and scratched his head; and at length manfully expressed his + resolution. "Well, my naunt speaks truth in her old saw—— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + 'He that serves Peveril maunna be slack, + Neither for weather, nor yet for wrack.' +</pre> + <p> + And then again, my good dame was wont to say, that whenever Peveril was in + a broil, Outram was in a stew; so I will never bear a base mind, but even + hold a part with you as my fathers have done with yours, for four + generations, whatever more." + </p> + <p> + "Spoken like a most gallant Outram," said Julian; "and were we but rid of + that puppy lord and his retinue, we two could easily deal with the other + three." + </p> + <p> + "Two Londoners and a Frenchman?" said Lance,—"I would take them in + mine own hand. And as for my Lord Saville, as they call him, I heard word + last night that he and all his men of gilded gingerbread—that looked + at an honest fellow like me, as if they were the ore and I the dross—are + all to be off this morning to some races, or such-like junketings, about + Tutbury. It was that brought him down here, where he met this other + civet-cat by accident." + </p> + <p> + In truth, even as Lance spoke, a trampling was heard of horses in the + yard; and from the hatch of their hayloft they beheld Lord Saville's + attendants mustered, and ready to set out as soon as he could make his + appearance. + </p> + <p> + "So ho, Master Jeremy," said one of the fellows, to a sort of principal + attendant, who just came out of the house, "methinks the wine has proved a + sleeping cup to my lord this morning." + </p> + <p> + "No," answered Jeremy, "he hath been up before light writing letters for + London; and to punish thy irreverence, thou, Jonathan, shalt be the man to + ride back with them." + </p> + <p> + "And so to miss the race?" said Jonathan sulkily; "I thank you for this + good turn, good Master Jeremy; and hang me if I forget it." + </p> + <p> + Farther discussion was cut short by the appearance of the young nobleman, + who, as he came out of the inn, said to Jeremy, "These be the letters. Let + one of the knaves ride to London for life and death, and deliver them as + directed; and the rest of them get to horse and follow me." + </p> + <p> + Jeremy gave Jonathan the packet with a malicious smile; and the + disappointed groom turned his horse's head sullenly towards London, while + Lord Saville, and the rest of his retinue, rode briskly off in an opposite + direction, pursued by the benedictions of the host and his family, who + stood bowing and courtesying at the door, in gratitude, doubtless, for the + receipt of an unconscionable reckoning. + </p> + <p> + It was full three hours after their departure, that Chiffinch lounged into + the room in which they had supped, in a brocade nightgown, and green + velvet cap, turned up with the most costly Brussels lace. He seemed but + half awake; and it was with drowsy voice that he called for a cup of cold + small beer. His manner and appearance were those of a man who had wrestled + hard with Bacchus on the preceding evening, and had scarce recovered the + effects of his contest with the jolly god. Lance, instructed by his master + to watch the motions of the courtier, officiously attended with the + cooling beverage he called for, pleading, as an excuse to the landlord, + his wish to see a Londoner in his morning-gown and cap. + </p> + <p> + No sooner had Chiffinch taken his morning draught, than he inquired after + Lord Saville. + </p> + <p> + "His lordship was mounted and away by peep of dawn," was Lance's reply. + </p> + <p> + "What the devil!" exclaimed Chiffinch; "why, this is scarce civil.—What! + off for the races with his whole retinue?" + </p> + <p> + "All but one," replied Lance, "whom his lordship sent back to London with + letters." + </p> + <p> + "To London with letters!" said Chiffinch. "Why, I am for London, and could + have saved his express a labour.—But stop—hold—I begin + to recollect—d——n, can I have blabbed?—I have—I + have—I remember it all now—I have blabbed; and to the very + weasel of the Court, who sucks the yelk out of every man's secret. Furies + and fire—that my afternoons should ruin my mornings thus!—I + must turn boon companion and good fellow in my cups—and have my + confidences and my quarrels—my friends and my enemies, with a plague + to me, as if any one could do a man much good or harm but his own self. + His messenger must be stopped, though—I will put a spoke in his + wheel.—Hark ye, drawer-fellow—call my groom hither—call + Tom Beacon." + </p> + <p> + Lance obeyed; but failed not, when he had introduced the domestic, to + remain in the apartment, in order to hear what should pass betwixt him and + his master. + </p> + <p> + "Hark ye, Tom," said Chiffinch, "here are five pieces for you." + </p> + <p> + "What's to be done now, I trow?" said Tom, without even the ceremony of + returning thanks, which he was probably well aware would not be received + even in part payment of the debt he was incurring. + </p> + <p> + "Mount your fleet nag, Tom—ride like the devil—overtake the + groom whom Lord Saville despatched to London this morning—lame his + horse—break his bones—fill him as drunk as the Baltic sea; or + do whatever may best and most effectively stop his journey.—Why does + the lout stand there without answering me? Dost understand me?" + </p> + <p> + "Why, ay, Master Chiffinch," said Tom; "and so I am thinking doth this + honest man here, who need not have heard quite so much of your counsel, an + it had been your will." + </p> + <p> + "I am bewitched this morning," said Chiffinch to himself, "or else the + champagne runs in my head still. My brain has become the very lowlands of + Holland—a gill-cup would inundate it—Hark thee, fellow," he + added, addressing Lance, "keep my counsel—there is a wager betwixt + Lord Saville and me, which of us shall first have a letter in London. Here + is to drink my health, and bring luck on my side. Say nothing of it; but + help Tom to his nag.—Tom, ere thou startest come for thy credentials—I + will give thee a letter to the Duke of Bucks, that may be evidence thou + wert first in town." + </p> + <p> + Tom Beacon ducked and exited; and Lance, after having made some show of + helping him to horse, ran back to tell his master the joyful intelligence, + that a lucky accident had abated Chiffinch's party to their own number. + </p> + <p> + Peveril immediately ordered his horses to be got ready; and, so soon as + Tom Beacon was despatched towards London, on a rapid trot, had the + satisfaction to observe Chiffinch, with his favourite Chaubert, mount to + pursue the same journey, though at a more moderate rate. He permitted them + to attain such a distance, that they might be dogged without suspicion; + then paid his reckoning, mounted his horse, and followed, keeping his men + carefully in view, until he should come to a place proper for the + enterprise which he meditated. + </p> + <p> + It had been Peveril's intention, that when they came to some solitary part + of the road, they should gradually mend their pace, until they overtook + Chaubert—that Lance Outram should then drop behind, in order to + assail the man of spits and stoves, while he himself, spurring onwards, + should grapple with Chiffinch. But this scheme presupposed that the master + and servant should travel in the usual manner—the latter riding a + few yards behind the former. Whereas, such and so interesting were the + subjects of discussion betwixt Chiffinch and the French cook, that, + without heeding the rules of etiquette, they rode on together, amicably + abreast, carrying on a conversation on the mysteries of the table, which + the ancient Comus, or a modern gastronome, might have listened to with + pleasure. It was therefore necessary to venture on them both at once. + </p> + <p> + For this purpose, when they saw a long tract of road before them, unvaried + by the least appearance of man, beast, or human habitation, they began to + mend their pace, that they might come up to Chiffinch, without giving him + any alarm, by a sudden and suspicious increase of haste. In this manner + they lessened the distance which separated them till they were within + about twenty yards, when Peveril, afraid that Chiffinch might recognise + him at a nearer approach, and so trust to his horse's heels, made Lance + the signal to charge. + </p> + <p> + At the sudden increase of their speed, and the noise with which it was + necessarily attended, Chiffinch looked around, but had time to do no more, + for Lance, who had pricked his pony (which was much more speedy than + Julian's horse) into full gallop, pushed, without ceremony, betwixt the + courtier and his attendant; and ere Chaubert had time for more than one + exclamation, he upset both horse and Frenchman,—<i>morbleu!</i> + thrilling from his tongue as he rolled on the ground amongst the various + articles of his occupation, which, escaping from the budget in which he + bore them, lay tumbled upon the highway in strange disorder; while Lance, + springing from his palfrey, commanded his foeman to be still, under no + less a penalty than that of death, if he attempted to rise. + </p> + <p> + Before Chiffinch could avenge his trusty follower's downfall, his own + bridle was seized by Julian, who presented a pistol with the other hand, + and commanded him to stand or die. + </p> + <p> + Chiffinch, though effeminate, was no coward. He stood still as commanded, + and said, with firmness, "Rogue, you have taken me at surprise. If you are + highwaymen, there is my purse. Do us no bodily harm, and spare the budget + of spices and sauces." + </p> + <p> + "Look you, Master Chiffinch," said Peveril, "this is no time for dallying. + I am no highwayman, but a man of honour. Give me back that packet which + you stole from me the other night; or, by all that is good, I will send a + brace of balls through you, and search for it at leisure." + </p> + <p> + "What night?—What packet?" answered Chiffinch, confused; yet willing + to protract the time for the chance of assistance, or to put Peveril off + his guard. "I know nothing of what you mean. If you are a man of honour, + let me draw my sword, and I will do you right, as a gentleman should do to + another." + </p> + <p> + "Dishonourable rascal!" said Peveril, "you escape not in this manner. You + plundered me when you had me at odds; and I am not the fool to let my + advantage escape, now that my turn is come. Yield up the packet; and then, + if you will, I will fight you on equal terms. But first," he reiterated, + "yield up the packet, or I will instantly send you where the tenor of your + life will be hard to answer for." + </p> + <p> + The tone of Peveril's voice, the fierceness of his eye, and the manner in + which he held the loaded weapon, within a hand's-breadth of Chiffinch's + head, convinced the last there was neither room for compromise, nor time + for trifling. He thrust his hand into a side pocket of his cloak, and with + visible reluctance, produced those papers and despatches with which Julian + had been entrusted by the Countess of Derby. + </p> + <p> + "They are five in number," said Julian; "and you have given me only four. + Your life depends on full restitution." + </p> + <p> + "It escaped from my hand," said Chiffinch, producing the missing document—"There + it is. Now, sir, your pleasure is fulfilled, unless," he added sulkily, + "you design either murder or farther robbery." + </p> + <p> + "Base wretch!" said Peveril, withdrawing his pistol, yet keeping a + watchful eye on Chiffinch's motions, "thou art unworthy any honest man's + sword; and yet, if you dare draw your own, as you proposed but now, I am + willing to give you a chance upon fair equality of terms." + </p> + <p> + "Equality!" said Chiffinch sneeringly; "yes, a proper equality—sword + and pistol against single rapier, and two men upon one, for Chaubert is no + fighter. No sir; I shall seek amends upon some more fitting occasion, and + with more equal weapons." + </p> + <p> + "By backbiting, or by poison, base pander!" said Julian; "these are thy + means of vengeance. But mark me—I know your vile purpose respecting + a lady who is too worthy that her name should be uttered in such a + worthless ear. Thou hast done me one injury, and thou see'st I have repaid + it. But prosecute this farther villainy, and be assured I will put thee to + death like a foul reptile, whose very slaver is fatal to humanity. Rely + upon this, as if Machiavel had sworn it; for so surely as you keep your + purpose, so surely will I prosecute my revenge.—Follow me, Lance, + and leave him to think on what I have told him." + </p> + <p> + Lance had, after the first shock, sustained a very easy part in this + recontre; for all he had to do, was to point the butt of his whip, in the + manner of a gun, at the intimidated Frenchman, who, lying on his back, and + gazing at random on the skies, had as little the power or purpose of + resistance, as any pig which had ever come under his own slaughter-knife. + </p> + <p> + Summoned by his master from the easy duty of guarding such an unresisting + prisoner, Lance remounted his horse, and they both rode off, leaving their + discomfited antagonists to console themselves for their misadventure as + they best could. But consolation was hard to come by in the circumstances. + The French artist had to lament the dispersion of his spices, and the + destruction of his magazine of sauces—an enchanter despoiled of his + magic wand and talisman, could scarce have been in more desperate + extremity. Chiffinch had to mourn the downfall of his intrigue, and its + premature discovery. "To this fellow, at least," he thought, "I can have + bragged none—here my evil genius alone has betrayed me. With this + infernal discovery, which may cost me so dear on all hands, champagne had + nought to do. If there be a flask left unbroken, I will drink it after + dinner, and try if it may not even yet suggest some scheme of redemption + and of revenge." + </p> + <p> + With this manly resolution, he prosecuted his journey to London. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0028" id="link2HCH0028"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXVIII + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + A man so various, that he seem'd to be + Not one, but all mankind's epitome; + Stiff in opinions—always in the wrong— + Was everything by starts, but nothing long; + Who, in the course of one revolving moon, + Was chemist, fiddler, statesman, and buffoon; + Then, all for women, painting, fiddling, drinking; + Besides a thousand freaks that died in thinking. + —DRYDEN. +</pre> + <p> + We must now transport the reader to the magnificent hotel in ——Street, + inhabited at this time by the celebrated George Villiers, Duke of + Buckingham, whom Dryden has doomed to a painful immortality by the few + lines which we have prefixed to this chapter. Amid the gay and licentious + of the laughing Court of Charles, the Duke was the most licentious and + most gay; yet, while expending a princely fortune, a strong constitution, + and excellent talents, in pursuit of frivolous pleasures, he nevertheless + nourished deeper and more extensive designs; in which he only failed from + want of that fixed purpose and regulated perseverance essential to all + important enterprises, but particularly in politics. + </p> + <p> + It was long past noon; and the usual hour of the Duke's levee—if + anything could be termed usual where all was irregular—had been long + past. His hall was filled with lackeys and footmen, in the most splendid + liveries; the interior apartments, with the gentlemen and pages of his + household, arrayed as persons of the first quality, and, in that respect, + rather exceeding than falling short of the Duke in personal splendour. But + his antechamber, in particular, might be compared to a gathering of eagles + to the slaughter, were not the simile too dignified to express that vile + race, who, by a hundred devices all tending to one common end, live upon + the wants of needy greatness, or administer to the pleasures of + summer-teeming luxury, or stimulate the wild wishes of lavish and wasteful + extravagance, by devising new modes and fresh motives of profusion. There + stood the projector, with his mysterious brow, promising unbounded wealth + to whomsoever might choose to furnish the small preliminary sum necessary + to change egg-shells into the great <i>arcanum</i>. There was Captain + Seagull, undertaker for a foreign settlement, with the map under his arm + of Indian or American kingdoms, beautiful as the primitive Eden, waiting + the bold occupants, for whom a generous patron should equip two + brigantines and a fly-boat. Thither came, fast and frequent, the + gamesters, in their different forms and calling. This, light, young, gay + in appearance, the thoughtless youth of wit and pleasure—the pigeon + rather than the rook—but at heart the same sly, shrewd, cold-blooded + calculator, as yonder old hard-featured professor of the same science, + whose eyes are grown dim with watching of the dice at midnight; and whose + fingers are even now assisting his mental computation of chances and of + odds. The fine arts, too—I would it were otherwise—have their + professors amongst this sordid train. The poor poet, half ashamed, in + spite of habit, of the part which he is about to perform, and abashed by + consciousness at once of his base motive and his shabby black coat, lurks + in yonder corner for the favourable moment to offer his dedication. Much + better attired, the architect presents his splendid vision of front and + wings, and designs a palace, the expense of which may transfer his + employer to a jail. But uppermost of all, the favourite musician, or + singer, who waits on my lord to receive, in solid gold, the value of the + dulcet sounds which solaced the banquet of the preceding evening. + </p> + <p> + Such, and many such like, were the morning attendants of the Duke of + Buckingham—all genuine descendants of the daughter of the + horse-leech, whose cry is "Give, give." + </p> + <p> + But the levee of his Grace contained other and very different characters; + and was indeed as various as his own opinions and pursuits. Besides many + of the young nobility and wealthy gentry of England, who made his Grace + the glass at which they dressed themselves for the day, and who learned + from him how to travel, with the newest and best grace, the general Road + to Ruin; there were others of a graver character—discarded + statesmen, political spies, opposition orators, servile tools of + administration, men who met not elsewhere, but who regarded the Duke's + mansion as a sort of neutral ground; sure, that if he was not of their + opinion to-day, this very circumstance rendered it most likely he should + think with them to-morrow. The Puritans themselves did not shun + intercourse with a man whose talents must have rendered him formidable, + even if they had not been united with high rank and an immense fortune. + Several grave personages, with black suits, short cloaks, and band-strings + of a formal cut, were mingled, as we see their portraits in a gallery of + paintings, among the gallants who ruffled in silk and embroidery. It is + true, they escaped the scandal of being thought intimates of the Duke, by + their business being supposed to refer to money matters. Whether these + grave and professing citizens mixed politics with money lending, was not + known; but it had been long observed, that the Jews, who in general + confine themselves to the latter department, had become for some time + faithful attendants at the Duke's levee. + </p> + <p> + It was high-tide in the antechamber, and had been so for more than an + hour, ere the Duke's gentleman-in-ordinary ventured into his bedchamber, + carefully darkened, so as to make midnight at noonday, to know his Grace's + pleasure. His soft and serene whisper, in which he asked whether it were + his Grace's pleasure to rise, was briefly and sharply answered by the + counter questions, "Who waits?—What's o'clock?" + </p> + <p> + "It is Jerningham, your Grace," said the attendant. "It is one, afternoon; + and your Grace appointed some of the people without at eleven." + </p> + <p> + "Who are they?—What do they want?" + </p> + <p> + "A message from Whitehall, your Grace." + </p> + <p> + "Pshaw! it will keep cold. Those who make all others wait, will be the + better of waiting in their turn. Were I to be guilty of ill-breeding, it + should rather be to a king than a beggar." + </p> + <p> + "The gentlemen from the city." + </p> + <p> + "I am tired of them—tired of their all cant, and no religion—all + Protestantism, and no charity. Tell them to go to Shaftesbury—to + Aldersgate Street with them—that's the best market for their wares." + </p> + <p> + "Jockey, my lord, from Newmarket." + </p> + <p> + "Let him ride to the devil—he has horse of mine, and spurs of his + own. Any more?" + </p> + <p> + "The whole antechamber is full, my lord—knights and squires, doctors + and dicers." + </p> + <p> + "The dicers, with their doctors[*] in their pockets, I presume." + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [*] Doctor, a cant name for false dice. +</pre> + <p> + "Counts, captains, and clergymen." + </p> + <p> + "You are alliterative, Jerningham," said the Duke; "and that is a proof + you are poetical. Hand me my writing things." + </p> + <p> + Getting half out of bed—thrusting one arm into a brocade nightgown, + deeply furred with sables, and one foot into a velvet slipper, while the + other pressed in primitive nudity the rich carpet—his Grace, without + thinking farther on the assembly without, began to pen a few lines of a + satirical poem; then suddenly stopped—threw the pen into the chimney—exclaimed + that the humour was past—and asked his attendant if there were any + letters. Jerningham produced a huge packet. + </p> + <p> + "What the devil!" said his Grace, "do you think I will read all these? I + am like Clarence, who asked a cup of wine, and was soused into a butt of + sack. I mean, is there anything which presses?" + </p> + <p> + "This letter, your Grace," said Jerningham, "concerning the Yorkshire + mortgage." + </p> + <p> + "Did I not bid thee carry it to old Gatheral, my steward?" + </p> + <p> + "I did, my lord," answered the other; "but Gatheral says there are + difficulties." + </p> + <p> + "Let the usurers foreclose, then—there is no difficulty in that; and + out of a hundred manors I shall scarce miss one," answered the Duke. "And + hark ye, bring me my chocolate." + </p> + <p> + "Nay, my lord, Gatheral does not say it is impossible—only + difficult." + </p> + <p> + "And what is the use of him, if he cannot make it easy? But you are all + born to make difficulties," replied the Duke. + </p> + <p> + "Nay, if your Grace approves the terms in this schedule, and pleases to + sign it, Gatheral will undertake for the matter," answered Jerningham. + </p> + <p> + "And could you not have said so at first, you blockhead?" said the Duke, + signing the paper without looking at the contents—"What other + letters? And remember, I must be plagued with no more business." + </p> + <p> + "Billets-doux, my lord—five or six of them. This left at the + porter's lodge by a vizard mask." + </p> + <p> + "Pshaw!" answered the Duke, tossing them over, while his attendant + assisted in dressing him—"an acquaintance of a quarter's standing." + </p> + <p> + "This given to one of the pages by my Lady ——'s + waiting-woman." + </p> + <p> + "Plague on it—a Jeremiade on the subject of perjury and treachery, + and not a single new line to the old tune," said the Duke, glancing over + the billet. "Here is the old cant—<i>cruel man—broken vows—Heaven's + just revenge</i>. Why, the woman is thinking of murder—not of love. + No one should pretend to write upon so threadbare a topic without having + at least some novelty of expression. <i>The despairing Araminta</i>—Lie + there, fair desperate. And this—how comes it?" + </p> + <p> + "Flung into the window of the hall, by a fellow who ran off at full + speed," answered Jerningham. + </p> + <p> + "This is a better text," said the Duke; "and yet it is an old one too—three + weeks old at least—The little Countess with the jealous lord—I + should not care a farthing for her, save for that same jealous lord—Plague + on't, and he's gone down to the country—<i>this evening—in + silence and safety—written with a quill pulled from the wing of + Cupid</i>—Your ladyship has left him pen-feathers enough to fly away + with—better clipped his wings when you had caught him, my lady—And + <i>so confident of her Buckingham's faith</i>,—I hate confidence in + a young person. She must be taught better—I will not go." + </p> + <p> + "You Grace will not be so cruel!" said Jerningham. + </p> + <p> + "Thou art a compassionate fellow, Jerningham; but conceit must be + punished." + </p> + <p> + "But if your lordship should resume your fancy for her?" + </p> + <p> + "Why, then, you must swear the billet-doux miscarried," answered the Duke. + "And stay, a thought strikes me—it shall miscarry in great style. + Hark ye—Is—what is the fellow's name—the poet—is + he yonder?" + </p> + <p> + "There are six gentlemen, sir, who, from the reams of paper in their + pocket, and the threadbare seams at their elbows, appear to wear the + livery of the Muses." + </p> + <p> + "Poetical once more, Jerningham. He, I mean, who wrote the last lampoon," + said the Duke. + </p> + <p> + "To whom your Grace said you owed five pieces and a beating!" replied + Jerningham. + </p> + <p> + "The money for his satire, and the cudgel for his praise—Good—find + him—give him the five pieces, and thrust the Countess's billet-doux—Hold—take + Araminta's and the rest of them—thrust them all into his portfolio—All + will come out at the Wit's Coffee-house; and if the promulgator be not + cudgelled into all the colours of the rainbow, there is no spite in woman, + no faith in crabtree, or pith in heart of oak—Araminta's wrath alone + would overburden one pair of mortal shoulders." + </p> + <p> + "But, my Lord Duke," said his attendant, "this Settle[*] is so dull a + rascal, that nothing he can write will take." + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +[*] Elkana Settle, the unworthy scribbler whom the envy of Rochester + and others tried to raise to public estimation, as a rival to + Dryden; a circumstance which has been the means of elevating him + to a very painful species of immortality. +</pre> + <p> + "Then as we have given him steel to head the arrow," said the Duke, "we + will give him wings to waft it with—wood, he has enough of his own + to make a shaft or bolt of. Hand me my own unfinished lampoon—give + it to him with the letters—let him make what he can of them all." + </p> + <p> + "My Lord Duke—I crave pardon—but your Grace's style will be + discovered; and though the ladies' names are not at the letters, yet they + will be traced." + </p> + <p> + "I would have it so, you blockhead. Have you lived with me so long, and + cannot discover that the éclat of an intrigue is, with me, worth all the + rest of it?" + </p> + <p> + "But the danger, my Lord Duke?" replied Jerningham. "There are husbands, + brothers, friends, whose revenge may be awakened." + </p> + <p> + "And beaten to sleep again," said Buckingham haughtily. "I have Black Will + and his cudgel for plebeian grumblers; and those of quality I can deal + with myself. I lack breathing and exercise of late." + </p> + <p> + "But yet your Grace——" + </p> + <p> + "Hold your peace, fool! I tell you that your poor dwarfish spirit cannot + measure the scope of mine. I tell thee I would have the course of my life + a torrent—I am weary of easy achievements, and wish for obstacles, + that I can sweep before my irresistible course." + </p> + <p> + Another gentleman now entered the apartment. "I humbly crave your Grace's + pardon," he said; "but Master Christian is so importunate for admission + instantly, that I am obliged to take your Grace's pleasure." + </p> + <p> + "Tell him to call three hours hence. Damn his politic pate, that would + make all men dance after his pipe!" + </p> + <p> + "I thank thee for the compliment, my Lord Duke," said Christian, entering + the apartment in somewhat a more courtly garb, but with the same + unpretending and undistinguished mien, and in the same placid and + indifferent manner with which he had accosted Julian Peveril upon + different occasions during his journey to London. "It is precisely my + present object to pipe to you; and you may dance to your own profit, if + you will." + </p> + <p> + "On my word, Master Christian," said the Duke haughtily, "the affair + should be weighty, that removes ceremony so entirely from betwixt us. If + it relates to the subject of our last conversation, I must request our + interview be postponed to some farther opportunity. I am engaged in an + affair of some weight." Then turning his back on Christian, he went on + with his conversation with Jerningham. "Find the person you wot of, and + give him the papers; and hark ye, give him this gold to pay for the shaft + of his arrow—the steel-head and peacock's wing we have already + provided." + </p> + <p> + "This is all well, my lord," said Christian calmly, and taking his seat at + the same time in an easy-chair at some distance; "but your Grace's levity + is no match for my equanimity. It is necessary I should speak with you; + and I will await your Grace's leisure in the apartment." + </p> + <p> + "<i>Very well</i>, sir," said the Duke peevishly; "if an evil is to be + undergone, the sooner it is over the better—I can take measures to + prevent its being renewed. So let me hear your errand without farther + delay." + </p> + <p> + "I will wait till your Grace's toilette is completed," said Christian, + with the indifferent tone which was natural to him. "What I have to say + must be between ourselves." + </p> + <p> + "Begone, Jerningham; and remain without till I call. Leave my doublet on + the couch.—How now, I have worn this cloth of silver a hundred + times." + </p> + <p> + "Only twice, if it please your Grace," replied Jerningham. + </p> + <p> + "As well twenty times—keep it for yourself, or give it to my valet, + if you are too proud of your gentility." + </p> + <p> + "Your Grace has made better men than me wear your cast clothes," said + Jerningham submissively. + </p> + <p> + "Thou art sharp, Jerningham," said the Duke—"in one sense I have, + and I may again. So now, that pearl-coloured will do with the ribbon and + George. Get away with thee.—And now that he is gone, Master + Christian, may I once more crave your pleasure?" + </p> + <p> + "My Lord Duke," said Christian, "you are a worshipper of difficulties in + state affairs, as in love matters." + </p> + <p> + "I trust you have been no eavesdropper, Master Christian," replied the + Duke; "it scarce argues the respect due to me, or to my roof." + </p> + <p> + "I know not what you mean, my lord," replied Christian. + </p> + <p> + "Nay, I care not if the whole world heard what I said but now to + Jerningham. But to the matter," replied the Duke of Buckingham. + </p> + <p> + "Your Grace is so much occupied with conquests over the fair and over the + witty, that you have perhaps forgotten what a stake you have in the little + Island of Man." + </p> + <p> + "Not a whit, Master Christian. I remember well enough that my roundheaded + father-in-law, Fairfax, had the island from the Long Parliament; and was + ass enough to quit hold of it at the Restoration, when, if he had closed + his clutches, and held fast, like a true bird of prey, as he should have + done, he might have kept it for him and his. It had been a rare thing to + have had a little kingdom—made laws of my own—had my + Chamberlain with his white staff—I would have taught Jerningham, in + half a day, to look as wise, walk as stiffly, and speak as silly, as Harry + Bennet." + </p> + <p> + "You might have done this, and more, if it had pleased your Grace." + </p> + <p> + "Ay, and if it had pleased my Grace, thou, Ned Christian, shouldst have + been the Jack Ketch of my dominions." + </p> + <p> + "<i>I</i> your Jack Ketch, my lord?" said Christian, more in a tone of + surprise than of displeasure. + </p> + <p> + "Why, ay; thou hast been perpetually intriguing against the life of yonder + poor old woman. It were a kingdom to thee to gratify thy spleen with thy + own hands." + </p> + <p> + "I only seek justice against the Countess," said Christian. + </p> + <p> + "And the end of justice is always a gibbet," said the Duke. + </p> + <p> + "Be it so," answered Christian. "Well, the Countess is in the Plot." + </p> + <p> + "The devil confound the Plot, as I believe he first invented it!" said the + Duke of Buckingham; "I have heard of nothing else for months. If one must + go to hell, I would it were by some new road, and in gentlemen's company. + I should not like to travel with Oates, Bedloe, and the rest of that + famous cloud of witnesses." + </p> + <p> + "Your Grace is then resolved to forego all the advantages which may arise? + If the House of Derby fall under forfeiture, the grant to Fairfax, now + worthily represented by your Duchess, revives, and you become the Lord and + Sovereign of Man." + </p> + <p> + "In right of a woman," said the Duke; "but, in troth, my godly dame owes + me some advantage for having lived the first year of our marriage with her + and old Black Tom, her grim, fighting, puritanic father. A man might as + well have married the Devil's daughter, and set up housekeeping with his + father-in-law."[*] + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +[*] Mary, daughter of Thomas, Lord Fairfax, was wedded to the Duke of + Buckingham, whose versatility made him capable of rendering + himself for a time as agreeable to his father-in-law, though a + rigid Presbyterian, as to the gay Charles II. +</pre> + <p> + "I understand you are willing, then, to join your interest for a heave at + the House of Derby, my Lord Duke?" + </p> + <p> + "As they are unlawfully possessed of my wife's kingdom, they certainly can + expect no favour at my hand. But thou knowest there is an interest at + Whitehall predominant over mine." + </p> + <p> + "That is only by your Grace's sufferance," said Christian. + </p> + <p> + "No, no; I tell thee a hundred times, no," said the Duke, rousing himself + to anger at the recollection. "I tell thee that base courtezan, the + Duchess of Portsmouth, hath impudently set herself to thwart and + contradict me; and Charles has given me both cloudy looks and hard words + before the Court. I would he could but guess what is the offence between + her and me! I would he knew but that! But I will have her plumes picked, + or my name is not Villiers. A worthless French fille-de-joie to brave me + thus!—Christian, thou art right; there is no passion so + spirit-stirring as revenge. I will patronise the Plot, if it be but to + spite her, and make it impossible for the King to uphold her." + </p> + <p> + As the Duke spoke, he gradually wrought himself into a passion, and + traversed the apartment with as much vehemence as if the only object he + had on earth was to deprive the Duchess of her power and favour with the + King. Christian smiled internally to see him approach the state of mind in + which he was most easily worked upon, and judiciously kept silence, until + the Duke called out to him, in a pet, "Well, Sir Oracle, you that have + laid so many schemes to supplant this she-wolf of Gaul, where are all your + contrivances now?—Where is the exquisite beauty who was to catch the + Sovereign's eye at the first glance?—Chiffinch, hath he seen her?—and + what does he say, that exquisite critic in beauty and blank-mange, women + and wine?" + </p> + <p> + "He has <i>seen</i> and approves, but has not yet heard her; and her + speech answers to all the rest. We came here yesterday; and to-day I + intend to introduce Chiffinch to her, the instant he arrives from the + country; and I expect him every hour. I am but afraid of the damsel's + peevish virtue, for she hath been brought up after the fashion of our + grandmothers—our mothers had better sense." + </p> + <p> + "What! so fair, so young, so quick-witted, and so difficult?" said the + Duke. "By your leave, you shall introduce me as well as Chiffinch." + </p> + <p> + "That your Grace may cure her of her intractable modesty?" said Christian. + </p> + <p> + "Why," replied the Duke, "it will but teach her to stand in her own light. + Kings do not love to court and sue; they should have their game run down + for them." + </p> + <p> + "Under your Grace's favour," said Christian, "this cannot be—<i>Non + omnibus dormio</i>—Your Grace knows the classic allusion. If this + maiden become a Prince's favourite, rank gilds the shame and the sin. But + to any under Majesty, she must not vail topsail." + </p> + <p> + "Why, thou suspicious fool, I was but in jest," said the Duke. "Do you + think I would interfere to spoil a plan so much to my own advantage as + that which you have laid before me?" + </p> + <p> + Christian smiled and shook his head. "My lord," he said, "I know your + Grace as well, or better, perhaps, than you know yourself. To spoil a + well-concerted intrigue by some cross stroke of your own, would give you + more pleasure, than to bring it to a successful termination according to + the plans of others. But Shaftesbury, and all concerned, have determined + that our scheme shall at least have fair play. We reckon, therefore, on + your help; and—forgive me when I say so—we will not permit + ourselves to be impeded by your levity and fickleness of purpose." + </p> + <p> + "Who?—I light and fickle of purpose?" said the Duke. "You see me + here as resolved as any of you, to dispossess the mistress, and to carry + on the plot; these are the only two things I live for in this world. No + one can play the man of business like me, when I please, to the very + filing and labelling of my letters. I am regular as a scrivener." + </p> + <p> + "You have Chiffinch's letter from the country; he told me he had written + to you about some passages betwixt him and the young Lord Saville." + </p> + <p> + "He did so—he did so," said the Duke, looking among his letters; + "but I see not his letter just now—I scarcely noted the contents—I + was busy when it came—but I have it safely." + </p> + <p> + "You should have acted on it," answered Christian. "The fool suffered + himself to be choused out of his secret, and prayed you to see that my + lord's messenger got not to the Duchess with some despatches which he sent + up from Derbyshire, betraying our mystery." + </p> + <p> + The Duke was now alarmed, and rang the bell hastily. Jerningham appeared. + "Where is the letter I had from Master Chiffinch some hours since?" + </p> + <p> + "If it be not amongst those your Grace has before you, I know nothing of + it," said Jerningham. "I saw none such arrive." + </p> + <p> + "You lie, you rascal," said Buckingham; "have you a right to remember + better than I do?" + </p> + <p> + "If your Grace will forgive me reminding you, you have scarce opened a + letter this week," said his gentleman. + </p> + <p> + "Did you ever hear such a provoking rascal?" said the Duke. "He might be a + witness in the Plot. He has knocked my character for regularity entirely + on the head with his damned counter-evidence." + </p> + <p> + "Your Grace's talent and capacity will at least remain unimpeached," said + Christian; "and it is those that must serve yourself and your friends. If + I might advise, you will hasten to Court, and lay some foundation for the + impression we wish to make. If your Grace can take the first word, and + throw out a hint to crossbite Saville, it will be well. But above all, + keep the King's ear employed, which no one can do so well as you. Leave + Chiffinch to fill his heart with a proper object. Another thing is, there + is a blockhead of an old Cavalier, who must needs be a bustler in the + Countess of Derby's behalf—he is fast in hold, with the whole tribe + of witnesses at his haunches." + </p> + <p> + "Nay, then, take him, Topham." + </p> + <p> + "Topham has taken him already, my lord," said Christian; "and there is, + besides, a young gallant, a son of the said Knight, who was bred in the + household of the Countess of Derby, and who has brought letters from her + to the Provincial of the Jesuits, and others in London." + </p> + <p> + "What are their names?" said the Duke dryly. + </p> + <p> + "Sir Geoffrey Peveril of Martindale Castle, in Derbyshire, and his son + Julian." + </p> + <p> + "What! Peveril of the Peak?" said the Duke,—"a stout old Cavalier as + ever swore an oath.—A Worcester-man, too—and, in truth, a man + of all work, when blows were going. I will not consent to his ruin, + Christian. These fellows must be flogged of such false scents—flogged + in every sense, they must, and will be, when the nation comes to its + eyesight again." + </p> + <p> + "It is of more than the last importance, in the meantime, to the + furtherance of our plan," said Christian, "that your Grace should stand + for a space between them and the King's favour. The youth hath influence + with the maiden, which we should find scarce favourable to our views; + besides, her father holds him as high as he can any one who is no such + puritanic fool as himself." + </p> + <p> + "Well, most Christian Christian," said the Duke, "I have heard your + commands at length. I will endeavour to stop the earths under the throne, + that neither the lord, knight, nor squire in question, shall find it + possible to burrow there. For the fair one, I must leave Chiffinch and you + to manage her introduction to her high destinies, since I am not to be + trusted. Adieu, most Christian Christian." + </p> + <p> + He fixed his eyes on him, and then exclaimed, as he shut the door of the + apartment,—"Most profligate and damnable villain! And what provokes + me most of all, is the knave's composed insolence. Your Grace will do this—and + your Grace will condescend to do that—A pretty puppet I should be, + to play the second part, or rather the third, in such a scheme! No, they + shall all walk according to my purpose, or I will cross them. I will find + this girl out in spite of them, and judge if their scheme is likely to be + successful. If so, she shall be mine—mine entirely, before she + becomes the King's; and I will command her who is to guide Charles.—Jerningham" + (his gentleman entered), "cause Christian to be dogged where-ever he goes, + for the next four-and-twenty hours, and find out where he visits a female + newly come to town.—You smile, you knave?" + </p> + <p> + "I did but suspect a fresh rival to Araminta and the little Countess," + said Jerningham. + </p> + <p> + "Away to your business, knave," said the Duke, "and let me think of mine.—To + subdue a Puritan in Esse—a King's favourite in Posse—the very + muster of western beauties—that is point first. The impudence of + this Manx mongrel to be corrected—the pride of Madame la Duchesse to + be pulled down—and important state intrigue to be farthered, or + baffled, as circumstances render most to my own honour and glory—I + wished for business but now, and I have got enough of it. But Buckingham + will keep his own steerage-way through shoal and through weather." + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0029" id="link2HCH0029"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIX + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + ——Mark you this, Bassanio— + The devil can quote Scripture for his purpose. + —MERCHANT OF VENICE. +</pre> + <p> + After leaving the proud mansion of the Duke of Buckingham, Christian, full + of the deep and treacherous schemes which he meditated, hastened to the + city, where, in a decent inn, kept by a person of his own persuasion, he + had been unexpectedly summoned to meet with Ralph Bridgenorth of + Moultrassie. He was not disappointed—the Major had arrived that + morning, and anxiously expected him. The usual gloom of his countenance + was darkened into a yet deeper shade of anxiety, which was scarcely + relieved, even while, in answer to his inquiry after his daughter, + Christian gave the most favourable account of her health and spirits, + naturally and unaffectedly intermingled with such praises of her beauty + and her disposition, as were likely to be most grateful to a father's ear. + </p> + <p> + But Christian had too much cunning to expatiate on this theme, however + soothing. He stopped short exactly at the point where, as an affectionate + relative, he might be supposed to have said enough. "The lady," he said, + "with whom he had placed Alice, was delighted with her aspect and manners, + and undertook to be responsible for her health and happiness. He had not, + he said, deserved so little confidence at the hand of his brother, + Bridgenorth, as that the Major should, contrary to his purpose, and to the + plan which they had adjusted together, have hurried up from the country, + as if his own presence were necessary for Alice's protection." + </p> + <p> + "Brother Christian," said Bridgenorth in reply, "I must see my child—I + must see this person with whom she is entrusted." + </p> + <p> + "To what purpose?" answered Christian. "Have you not often confessed that + the over excess of the carnal affection which you have entertained for + your daughter, hath been a snare to you?—Have you not, more than + once, been on the point of resigning those great designs which should + place righteousness as a counsellor beside the throne, because you desired + to gratify your daughter's girlish passion for this descendant of your old + persecutor—this Julian Peveril?" + </p> + <p> + "I own it," said Bridgenorth; "and worlds would I have given, and would + yet give, to clasp that youth to my bosom, and call him my son. The spirit + of his mother looks from his eye, and his stately step is as that of his + father, when he daily spoke comfort to me in my distress, and said, 'The + child liveth.'" + </p> + <p> + "But the youth walks," said Christian, "after his own lights, and mistakes + the meteor of the marsh for the Polar star. Ralph Bridgenorth, I will + speak to thee in friendly sincerity. Thou must not think to serve both the + good cause and Baal. Obey, if thou wilt, thine own carnal affections, + summon this Julian Peveril to thy house, and let him wed thy daughter—But + mark the reception she will meet with from the proud old knight, whose + spirit is now, even now, as little broken with his chains, as after the + sword of the Saints had prevailed at Worcester. Thou wilt see thy daughter + spurned from his feet like an outcast." + </p> + <p> + "Christian," said Bridgenorth, interrupting him, "thou dost urge me hard; + but thou dost it in love, my brother, and I forgive thee—Alice shall + never be spurned.—But this friend of thine—this lady—thou + art my child's uncle; and after me, thou art next to her in love and + affection—Still, thou art not her father—hast not her father's + fears. Art thou sure of the character of this woman to whom my child is + entrusted?" + </p> + <p> + "Am I sure of my own?—Am I sure that my name is Christian—yours + Bridgenorth?—Is it a thing I am likely to be insecure in?—Have + I not dwelt for many years in this city?—Do I not know this Court?—And + am I likely to be imposed upon? For I will not think you can fear my + imposing upon you." + </p> + <p> + "Thou art my brother," said Bridgenorth—"the blood and bone of my + departed Saint—and I am determined that I will trust thee in this + matter." + </p> + <p> + "Thou dost well," said Christian; "and who knows what reward may be in + store for thee?—I cannot look upon Alice, but it is strongly borne + in on my mind, that there will be work for a creature so excellent beyond + ordinary women. Courageous Judith freed Bethulia by her valour, and the + comely features of Esther made her a safeguard and a defence to her people + in the land of captivity, when she found favour in the sight of King + Ahasuerus." + </p> + <p> + "Be it with her as Heaven wills," said Bridgenorth; "and now tell me what + progress there is in the great work." + </p> + <p> + "The people are weary of the iniquity of this Court," said Christian; "and + if this man will continue to reign, it must be by calling to his councils + men of another stamp. The alarm excited by the damnable practices of the + Papists has called up men's souls, and awakened their eyes to the dangers + of their state.—He himself—for he will give up brother and + wife to save himself—is not averse to a change of measures; and + though we cannot at first see the Court purged as with a winnowing fan, + yet there will be enough of the good to control the bad—enough of + the sober party to compel the grant of that universal toleration, for + which we have sighed so long, as a maiden for her beloved. Time and + opportunity will lead the way to more thorough reformation; and that will + be done without stroke of sword, which our friends failed to establish on + a sure foundation, even when their victorious blades were in their hands." + </p> + <p> + "May God grant it!" said Bridgenorth; "for I fear me I should scruple to + do aught which should once more unsheath the civil sword; but welcome all + that comes in a peaceful and parliamentary way." + </p> + <p> + "Ay," said Christian, "and which will bring with it the bitter amends, + which our enemies have so long merited at our hands. How long hath our + brother's blood cried for vengeance from the altar!—Now shall that + cruel Frenchwoman find that neither lapse of years, nor her powerful + friends, nor the name of Stanley, nor the Sovereignty of Man, shall stop + the stern course of the pursuer of blood. Her name shall be struck from + the noble, and her heritage shall another take." + </p> + <p> + "Nay, but, brother Christian," said Bridgenorth, "art thou not over eager + in pursuing this thing?—It is thy duty as a Christian to forgive + thine enemies." + </p> + <p> + "Ay, but not the enemies of Heaven—not those who shed the blood of + the saints," said Christian, his eyes kindling that vehement and fiery + expression which at times gave to his uninteresting countenance the only + character of passion which it ever exhibited. "No, Bridgenorth," he + continued, "I esteem this purpose of revenge holy—I account it a + propitiatory sacrifice for what may have been evil in my life. I have + submitted to be spurned by the haughty—I have humbled myself to be + as a servant; but in my breast was the proud thought, I who do this—do + it that I may avenge my brother's blood." + </p> + <p> + "Still, my brother," said Bridgenorth, "although I participate thy + purpose, and have aided thee against this Moabitish woman, I cannot but + think thy revenge is more after the law of Moses than after the law of + love." + </p> + <p> + "This comes well from thee, Ralph Bridgenorth," answered Christian; "from + thee, who has just smiled over the downfall of thine own enemy." + </p> + <p> + "If you mean Sir Geoffrey Peveril," said Bridgenorth, "I smile not on his + ruin. It is well he is abased; but if it lies with me, I may humble his + pride, but will never ruin his house." + </p> + <p> + "You know your purpose best," said Christian; "and I do justice, brother + Bridgenorth, to the purity of your principles; but men who see with but + worldly eyes, would discern little purpose of mercy in the strict + magistrate and severe creditor—and such have you been to Peveril." + </p> + <p> + "And, brother Christian," said Bridgenorth, his colour rising as he spoke, + "neither do I doubt your purpose, nor deny the surprising address with + which you have procured such perfect information concerning the purposes + of yonder woman of Ammon. But it is free to me to think, that in your + intercourse with the Court, and with courtiers, you may, in your carnal + and worldly policy, sink the value of those spiritual gifts, for which you + were once so much celebrated among the brethren." + </p> + <p> + "Do not apprehend it," said Christian, recovering his temper, which had + been a little ruffled by the previous discussion. "Let us but work + together as heretofore; and I trust each of us shall be found doing the + work of a faithful servant to that good old cause for which we have + heretofore drawn the sword." + </p> + <p> + So saying, he took his hat, and bidding Bridgenorth farewell, declared his + intention of returning in the evening. + </p> + <p> + "Fare thee well!" said Bridgenorth; "to that cause wilt thou find me ever + a true and devoted adherent. I will act by that counsel of thine, and will + not even ask thee—though it may grieve my heart as a parent—with + whom, or where, thou hast entrusted my child. I will try to cut off, and + cast from me, even my right hand, and my right eye; but for thee, + Christian, if thou dost deal otherwise than prudently and honestly in this + matter, it is what God and man will require at thy hand." + </p> + <p> + "Fear not me," said Christian hastily, and left the place, agitated by + reflections of no pleasant kind. + </p> + <p> + "I ought to have persuaded him to return," he said, as he stepped out into + the street. "Even his hovering in this neighbourhood may spoil the plan on + which depends the rise of my fortunes—ay, and of his child's. Will + men say I have ruined her, when I shall have raised her to the dazzling + height of the Duchess of Portsmouth, and perhaps made her a mother to a + long line of princes? Chiffinch hath vouched for opportunity; and the + voluptuary's fortune depends upon his gratifying the taste of his master + for variety. If she makes an impression, it must be a deep one; and once + seated in his affections, I fear not her being supplanted.—What will + her father say? Will he, like a prudent man, put his shame in his pocket, + because it is well gilded? or will he think it fitting to make a display + of moral wrath and parental frenzy? I fear the latter—He has ever + kept too strict a course to admit his conniving at such licence. But what + will his anger avail?—I need not be seen in the matter—those + who are will care little for the resentment of a country Puritan. And + after all, what I am labouring to bring about is best for himself, the + wench, and above all, for me, Edward Christian." + </p> + <p> + With such base opiates did this unhappy wretch stifle his own conscience, + while anticipating the disgrace of his friend's family, and the ruin of a + near relative, committed in confidence to his charge. The character of + this man was of no common description; nor was it by an ordinary road that + he had arrived at the present climax of unfeeling and infamous + selfishness. + </p> + <p> + Edward Christian, as the reader is aware, was the brother of that William + Christian, who was the principal instrument in delivering up the Isle of + Man to the Republic, and who became the victim of the Countess of Derby's + revenge on that account. Both had been educated as Puritans, but William + was a soldier, which somewhat modified the strictness of his religious + opinions; Edward, a civilian, seemed to entertain these principles in the + utmost rigour. But it was only seeming. The exactness of deportment, which + procured him great honour and influence among the <i>sober party</i>, as + they were wont to term themselves, covered a voluptuous disposition, the + gratification of which was sweet to him as stolen waters, and pleasant as + bread eaten in secret. While, therefore, his seeming godliness brought him + worldly gain, his secret pleasures compensated for his outward austerity; + until the Restoration, and the Countess's violent proceedings against his + brother interrupted the course of both. He then fled from his native + island, burning with the desire of revenging his brother's death—the + only passion foreign to his own gratification which he was ever known to + cherish, and which was also, at least, partly selfish, since it concerned + the restoration of his own fortunes. + </p> + <p> + He found easy access to Villiers, Duke of Buckingham, who, in right of his + Duchess, claimed such of the Derby estate as had been bestowed by the + Parliament on his celebrated father-in-law, Lord Fairfax. His influence at + the Court of Charles, where a jest was a better plea than a long claim of + faithful service, was so successfully exerted, as to contribute greatly to + the depression of that loyal and ill-rewarded family. But Buckingham was + incapable, even for his own interest, of pursuing the steady course which + Christian suggested to him; and his vacillation probably saved the remnant + of the large estates of the Earl of Derby. + </p> + <p> + Meantime, Christian was too useful a follower to be dismissed. From + Buckingham, and others of that stamp, he did not affect to conceal the + laxity of his morals; but towards the numerous and powerful party to which + he belonged, he was able to disguise them by a seeming gravity of + exterior, which he never laid aside. Indeed, so wide and absolute was then + the distinction betwixt the Court and the city, that a man might have for + some time played two several parts, as in two different spheres, without + its being discovered in the one that he exhibited himself in a different + light in the other. Besides, when a man of talent shows himself an able + and useful partisan, his party will continue to protect and accredit him, + in spite of conduct the most contradictory to their own principles. Some + facts are, in such cases, denied—some are glossed over—and + party zeal is permitted to cover at least as many defects as ever doth + charity. + </p> + <p> + Edward Christian had often need of the partial indulgence of his friends; + but he experienced it, for he was eminently useful. Buckingham, and other + courtiers of the same class, however dissolute in their lives, were + desirous of keeping some connection with the Dissenting or Puritanic + party, as it was termed; thereby to strengthen themselves against their + opponents at Court. In such intrigues, Christian was a notable agent; and + at one time had nearly procured an absolute union between a class which + professed the most rigid principles of religion and morality, and the + latitudinarian courtiers, who set all principle at defiance. + </p> + <p> + Amidst the vicissitudes of a life of intrigue, during which Buckingham's + ambitious schemes, and his own, repeatedly sent him across the Atlantic, + it was Edward Christian's boast that he never lost sight of his principal + object,—revenge on the Countess of Derby. He maintained a close and + intimate correspondence with his native island, so as to be perfectly + informed of whatever took place there; and he stimulated, on every + favourable opportunity, the cupidity of Buckingham to possess himself of + this petty kingdom, by procuring the forfeiture of its present Lord. It + was not difficult to keep his patron's wild wishes alive on this topic, + for his own mercurial imagination attached particular charms to the idea + of becoming a sort of sovereign even in this little island; and he was, + like Catiline, as covetous of the property of others, as he was profuse of + his own. + </p> + <p> + But it was not until the pretended discovery of the Papist Plot that the + schemes of Christian could be brought to ripen; and then, so odious were + the Catholics in the eyes of the credulous people of England, that, upon + the accusation of the most infamous of mankind, common informers, the + scourings of jails, and the refuse of the whipping-post, the most + atrocious charges against persons of the highest rank and fairest + character were readily received and credited. + </p> + <p> + This was a period which Christian did not fail to improve. He drew close + his intimacy with Bridgenorth, which had indeed never been interrupted, + and readily engaged him in his schemes, which, in the eyes of his + brother-in-law, were alike honourable and patriotic. But, while he + flattered Bridgenorth with the achieving a complete reformation in the + state—checking the profligacy of the Court—relieving the + consciences of the Dissenters from the pressures of the penal laws—amending, + in fine, the crying grievances of the time—while he showed him also, + in prospect, revenge upon the Countess of Derby, and a humbling + dispensation on the house of Peveril, from whom Bridgenorth had suffered + such indignity, Christian did not neglect, in the meanwhile, to consider + how he could best benefit himself by the confidence reposed in him by his + unsuspicious relation. + </p> + <p> + The extreme beauty of Alice Bridgenorth—the great wealth which time + and economy had accumulated on her father—pointed her out as a most + desirable match to repair the wasted fortunes of some of the followers of + the Court; and he flattered himself that he could conduct such a + negotiation so as to be in a high degree conducive to his own advantage. + He found there would be little difficulty in prevailing on Major + Bridgenorth to entrust him with the guardianship of his daughter. That + unfortunate gentleman had accustomed himself, from the very period of her + birth, to regard the presence of his child as a worldly indulgence too + great to be allowed to him; and Christian had little trouble in convincing + him that the strong inclination which he felt to bestow her on Julian + Peveril, provided he could be brought over to his own political opinions, + was a blameable compromise with his more severe principles. Late + circumstances had taught him the incapacity and unfitness of Dame Debbitch + for the sole charge of so dear a pledge; and he readily and thankfully + embraced the kind offer of her maternal uncle, Christian, to place Alice + under the protection of a lady of rank in London, whilst he himself was to + be engaged in the scenes of bustle and blood, which, in common with all + good Protestants, he expected was speedily to take place on a general + rising of the Papists, unless prevented by the active and energetic + measures of the good people of England. He even confessed his fears, that + his partial regard for Alice's happiness might enervate his efforts in + behalf of his country; and Christian had little trouble in eliciting from + him a promise, that he would forbear to inquire after her for some time. + </p> + <p> + Thus certain of being the temporary guardian of his niece for a space long + enough, he flattered himself, for the execution of his purpose, Christian + endeavoured to pave the way by consulting Chiffinch, whose known skill in + Court policy qualified him best as an adviser on this occasion. But this + worthy person, being, in fact, a purveyor for his Majesty's pleasures, and + on that account high in his good graces, thought it fell within the line + of his duty to suggest another scheme than that on which Christian + consulted him. A woman of such exquisite beauty as Alice was described, he + deemed more worthy to be a partaker of the affections of the merry + Monarch, whose taste in female beauty was so exquisite, than to be made + the wife of some worn-out prodigal of quality. And then, doing perfect + justice to his own character, he felt it would not be one whit impaired, + while his fortune would be, in every respect, greatly amended, if, after + sharing the short reign of the Gwyns, the Davises, the Robertses, and so + forth, Alice Bridgenorth should retire from the state of a royal + favourite, into the humble condition of Mrs. Chiffinch. + </p> + <p> + After cautiously sounding Christian, and finding that the near prospect of + interest to himself effectually prevented his starting at this iniquitous + scheme, Chiffinch detailed it to him fully, carefully keeping the final + termination out of sight, and talking of the favour to be acquired by the + fair Alice as no passing caprice, but the commencement of a reign as long + and absolute as that of the Duchess of Portsmouth, of whose avarice and + domineering temper Charles was now understood to be much tired, though the + force of habit rendered him unequal to free himself of her yoke. + </p> + <p> + Thus chalked out, the scene prepared was no longer the intrigue of a Court + pander, and a villainous resolution for the ruin of an innocent girl, but + became a state intrigue, for the removal of an obnoxious favourite, and + the subsequent change of the King's sentiments upon various material + points, in which he was at present influenced by the Duchess of + Portsmouth. In this light it was exhibited to the Duke of Buckingham, who, + either to sustain his character for daring gallantry, or in order to + gratify some capricious fancy, had at one time made love to the reigning + favourite, and experienced a repulse which he had never forgiven. + </p> + <p> + But one scheme was too little to occupy the active and enterprising spirit + of the Duke. An appendix of the Popish Plot was easily so contrived as to + involve the Countess of Derby, who, from character and religion, was + precisely the person whom the credulous part of the public were inclined + to suppose the likely accomplice of such a conspiracy. Christian and + Bridgenorth undertook the perilous commission of attacking her even in her + own little kingdom of Man, and had commissions for this purpose, which + were only to be produced in case of their scheme taking effect. + </p> + <p> + It miscarried, as the reader is aware, from the Countess's alert + preparations for defence; and neither Christian nor Bridgenorth held it + sound policy to practise openly, even under parliamentary authority, + against a lady so little liable to hesitate upon the measures most likely + to secure her feudal sovereignty; wisely considering that even the + omnipotence, as it has been somewhat too largely styled, of Parliament, + might fail to relieve them from the personal consequences of a failure. + </p> + <p> + On the continent of Britain, however, no opposition was to be feared; and + so well was Christian acquainted with all the motions in the interior of + the Countess's little court, or household, that Peveril would have been + arrested the instant he set foot on shore, but for the gale of wind which + obliged the vessel, in which he was a passenger, to run for Liverpool. + Here Christian, under the name of Ganlesse, unexpectedly met with him, and + preserved him from the fangs of the well-breathed witnesses of the Plot, + with the purpose of securing his despatches, or, if necessary, his person + also, in such a manner as to place him at his own discretion—a + narrow and perilous game, which he thought it better, however, to + undertake, than to permit these subordinate agents, who were always ready + to mutiny against all in league with them, to obtain the credit which they + must have done by the seizure of the Countess of Derby's despatches. It + was, besides, essential to Buckingham's schemes that these should not pass + into the hands of a public officer like Topham, who, however pompous and + stupid, was upright and well-intentioned, until they had undergone the + revisal of a private committee, where something might have probably been + suppressed, even supposing that nothing had been added. In short, + Christian, in carrying on his own separate and peculiar intrigue, by the + agency of the Great Popish Plot, as it was called, acted just like an + engineer, who derives the principle of motion which turns his machinery, + by means of a steam-engine, or large water-wheel, constructed to drive a + separate and larger engine. Accordingly, he was determined that, while he + took all the advantage he could from their supposed discoveries, no one + should be admitted to tamper or interfere with his own plans of profit and + revenge. + </p> + <p> + Chiffinch, who, desirous of satisfying himself with his own eyes of that + excellent beauty which had been so highly extolled, had gone down to + Derbyshire on purpose, was infinitely delighted, when, during the course + of a two hours' sermon at the dissenting chapel in Liverpool, which + afforded him ample leisure for a deliberate survey, he arrived at the + conclusion that he had never seen a form or face more captivating. His + eyes having confirmed what was told him, he hurried back to the little inn + which formed their place of rendezvous, and there awaited Christian and + his niece, with a degree of confidence in the success of their project + which he had not before entertained; and with an apparatus of luxury, + calculated, as he thought, to make a favourable impression on the mind of + a rustic girl. He was somewhat surprised, when, instead of Alice + Bridgenorth, to whom he expected that night to have been introduced, he + found that Christian was accompanied by Julian Peveril. It was indeed a + severe disappointment, for he had prevailed on his own indolence to + venture this far from the Court, in order that he might judge, with his + own paramount taste, whether Alice was really the prodigy which her + uncle's praises had bespoken her, and, as such, a victim worthy of the + fate to which she was destined. + </p> + <p> + A few words betwixt the worthy confederates determined them on the plan of + stripping Peveril of the Countess's despatches; Chiffinch absolutely + refusing to take any share in arresting him, as a matter of which his + Master's approbation might be very uncertain. + </p> + <p> + Christian had also his own reasons for abstaining from so decisive a step. + It was by no means likely to be agreeable to Bridgenorth, whom it was + necessary to keep in good humour;—it was not necessary, for the + Countess's despatches were of far more importance than the person of + Julian. Lastly, it was superfluous in this respect also, that Julian was + on the road to his father's castle, where it was likely he would be + seized, as a matter of course, along with the other suspicious persons who + fell under Topham's warrant, and the denunciations of his infamous + companions. He, therefore, far from using any violence to Peveril, assumed + towards him such a friendly tone, as might seem to warn him against + receiving damage from others, and vindicate himself from having any share + in depriving him of his charge. This last manoeuvre was achieved by an + infusion of a strong narcotic into Julian's wine; under the influence of + which he slumbered so soundly, that the confederates were easily able to + accomplish their inhospitable purpose. + </p> + <p> + The events of the succeeding days are already known to the reader. + Chiffinch set forward to return to London, with the packet, which it was + desirable should be in Buckingham's hands as soon as possible; while + Christian went to Moultrassie, to receive Alice from her father, and + convey her safely to London—his accomplice agreeing to defer his + curiosity to see more of her until they should have arrived in that city. + </p> + <p> + Before parting with Bridgenorth, Christian had exerted his utmost address + to prevail on him to remain at Moultrassie; he had even overstepped the + bounds of prudence, and, by his urgency, awakened some suspicions of an + indefinite nature, which he found it difficult to allay. Bridgenorth, + therefore, followed his brother-in-law to London; and the reader has + already been made acquainted with the arts which Christian used to prevent + his farther interference with the destinies of his daughter, or the + unhallowed schemes of her ill-chosen guardian. Still Christian, as he + strode along the street in profound reflection, saw that his undertaking + was attended with a thousand perils; and the drops stood like beads on his + brow when he thought of the presumptuous levity and fickle temper of + Buckingham—the frivolity and intemperance of Chiffinch—the + suspicions of the melancholy and bigoted, yet sagacious and honest + Bridgenorth. "Had I," he thought, "but tools fitted, each to their portion + of the work, how easily could I heave asunder and disjoint the strength + that opposes me! But with these frail and insufficient implements, I am in + daily, hourly, momentary danger, that one lever or other gives way, and + that the whole ruin recoils on my own head. And yet, were it not for those + failings I complain of, how were it possible for me to have acquired that + power over them all which constitutes them my passive tools, even when + they seem most to exert their own free will? Yes, the bigots have some + right when they affirm that all is for the best." + </p> + <p> + It may seem strange, that, amidst the various subjects of Christian's + apprehension, he was never visited by any long or permanent doubt that the + virtue of his niece might prove the shoal on which his voyage should be + wrecked. But he was an arrant rogue, as well as a hardened libertine; and, + in both characters, a professed disbeliever in the virtue of the fair sex. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0030" id="link2HCH0030"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXX + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + As for John Dryden's Charles, I own that King + Was never any very mighty thing; + And yet he was a devilish honest fellow— + Enjoy'd his friend and bottle, and got mellow. + —DR. WOLOOT. +</pre> + <p> + London, the grand central point of intrigues of every description, had now + attracted within its dark and shadowy region the greater number of the + personages whom we have had occasion to mention. + </p> + <p> + Julian Peveril, amongst others of the <i>dramatis personæ</i>, had + arrived, and taken up his abode in a remote inn in the suburbs. His + business, he conceived, was to remain incognito until he should have + communicated in private with the friends who were most likely to lend + assistance to his parents, as well as to his patroness, in their present + situation of doubt and danger. Amongst these, the most powerful was the + Duke of Ormond, whose faithful services, high rank, and acknowledged worth + and virtue, still preserved an ascendancy in that very Court, where, in + general, he was regarded as out of favour. Indeed, so much consciousness + did Charles display in his demeanour towards that celebrated noble, and + servant of his father, that Buckingham once took the freedom to ask the + King whether the Duke of Ormond had lost his Majesty's favour, or his + Majesty the Duke's? since, whenever they chanced to meet, the King + appeared the more embarrassed of the two. But it was not Peveril's good + fortune to obtain the advice or countenance of this distinguished person. + His Grace of Ormond was not at that time in London. + </p> + <p> + The letter, about the delivery of which the Countess had seemed most + anxious after that to the Duke of Ormond, was addressed to Captain Barstow + (a Jesuit, whose real name was Fenwicke), to be found, or at least to be + heard of, in the house of one Martin Christal in the Savoy. To this place + hastened Peveril, upon learning the absence of the Duke of Ormond. He was + not ignorant of the danger which he personally incurred, by thus becoming + a medium of communication betwixt a Popish priest and a suspected + Catholic. But when he undertook the perilous commission of his patroness, + he had done so frankly, and with the unreserved resolution of serving her + in the manner in which she most desired her affairs to be conducted. Yet + he could not forbear some secret apprehension, when he felt himself + engaged in the labyrinth of passages and galleries, which led to different + obscure sets of apartments in the ancient building termed the Savoy. + </p> + <p> + This antiquated and almost ruinous pile occupied a part of the site of the + public offices in the Strand, commonly called Somerset House. The Savoy + had been formerly a palace, and took its name from an Earl of Savoy, by + whom it was founded. It had been the habitation of John of Gaunt, and + various persons of distinction—had become a convent, an hospital, + and finally, in Charles II.'s time, a waste of dilapidated buildings and + ruinous apartments, inhabited chiefly by those who had some connection + with, or dependence upon, the neighbouring palace of Somerset House, + which, more fortunate than the Savoy, had still retained its royal title, + and was the abode of a part of the Court, and occasionally of the King + himself, who had apartments there. + </p> + <p> + It was not without several inquiries, and more than one mistake, that, at + the end of a long and dusky passage, composed of boards so wasted by time + that they threatened to give way under his feet, Julian at length found + the name of Martin Christal, broker and appraiser, upon a shattered door. + He was about to knock, when some one pulled his cloak; and looking round, + to his great astonishment, which indeed almost amounted to fear, he saw + the little mute damsel, who had accompanied him for a part of the way on + his voyage from the Isle of Man. + </p> + <p> + "Fenella!" he exclaimed, forgetting that she could neither hear nor reply,—"Fenella! + Can this be you?" + </p> + <p> + Fenella, assuming the air of warning and authority, which she had + heretofore endeavoured to adopt towards him, interposed betwixt Julian and + the door at which he was about to knock—pointed with her finger + towards it in a prohibiting manner, and at the same time bent her brows, + and shook her head sternly. + </p> + <p> + After a moment's consideration, Julian could place but one interpretation + upon Fenella's appearance and conduct, and that was, by supposing her lady + had come up to London, and had despatched this mute attendant, as a + confidential person, to apprise him of some change of her intended + operations, which might render the delivery of her letters to Barstow, <i>alias</i> + Fenwicke, superfluous, or perhaps dangerous. He made signs to Fenella, + demanding to know whether she had any commission from the Countess. She + nodded. "Had she any letter?" he continued, by the same mode of inquiry. + She shook her head impatiently, and, walking hastily along the passage, + made a signal to him to follow. He did so, having little doubt that he was + about to be conducted into the Countess's presence; but his surprise, at + first excited by Fenella's appearance, was increased by the rapidity and + ease with which she seemed to track the dusky and decayed mazes of the + dilapidated Savoy, equal to that with which he had seen her formerly lead + the way through the gloomy vaults of Castle Rushin, in the Isle of Man. + </p> + <p> + When he recollected, however, that Fenella had accompanied the Countess on + a long visit to London, it appeared not improbable that she might then + have acquired this local knowledge which seemed so accurate. Many + foreigners, dependent on Queen or Queen Dowager, had apartments in the + Savoy. Many Catholic priests also found refuge in its recesses, under + various disguises, and in defiance of the severity of the laws against + Popery. What was more likely than that the Countess of Derby, a Catholic + and a Frenchwoman, should have had secret commissions amongst such people; + and that the execution of such should be entrusted, at least occasionally, + to Fenella? + </p> + <p> + Thus reflecting, Julian continued to follow her light and active footsteps + as she glided from the Strand to Spring-Garden, and thence into the Park. + </p> + <p> + It was still early in the morning, and the Mall was untenanted, save by a + few walkers, who frequented these shades for the wholesome purposes of air + and exercise. Splendour, gaiety, and display, did not come forth, at that + period, until noon was approaching. All readers have heard that the whole + space where the Horse Guards are now built, made, in the time of Charles + II., a part of St. James's Park; and that the old building, now called the + Treasury, was a part of the ancient Palace of Whitehall, which was thus + immediately connected with the Park. The canal had been constructed, by + the celebrated Le Notre, for the purpose of draining the Park; and it + communicated with the Thames by a decoy, stocked with a quantity of the + rarer waterfowl. It was towards this decoy that Fenella bent her way with + unabated speed; and they were approaching a group of two or three + gentlemen, who sauntered by its banks, when, on looking closely at him who + appeared to be the chief of the party, Julian felt his heart beat + uncommonly thick, as if conscious of approaching some one of the highest + consequence. + </p> + <p> + The person whom he looked upon was past the middle age of life, of a dark + complexion, corresponding with the long, black, full-bottomed periwig, + which he wore instead of his own hair. His dress was plain black velvet, + with a diamond star, however, on his cloak, which hung carelessly over one + shoulder. His features, strongly lined, even to harshness, had yet an + expression of dignified good-humour; he was well and strongly built, + walked upright and yet easily, and had upon the whole the air of a person + of the highest consideration. He kept rather in advance of his companions, + but turned and spoke to them, from time to time, with much affability, and + probably with some liveliness, judging by the smiles, and sometimes the + scarce restrained laughter, by which some of his sallies were received by + his attendants. They also wore only morning dresses; but their looks and + manner were those of men of rank, in presence of one in station still more + elevated. They shared the attention of their principal in common with + seven or eight little black curly-haired spaniels, or rather, as they are + now called, cockers, which attended their master as closely, and perhaps + with as deep sentiments of attachment, as the bipeds of the group; and + whose gambols, which seemed to afford him much amusement, he sometimes + checked, and sometimes encouraged. In addition to this pastime, a lackey, + or groom, was also in attendance, with one or two little baskets and bags, + from which the gentleman we have described took, from time to time, a + handful of seeds, and amused himself with throwing them to the waterfowl. + </p> + <p> + This the King's favourite occupation, together with his remarkable + countenance, and the deportment of the rest of the company towards him, + satisfied Julian Peveril that he was approaching, perhaps indecorously, + near the person of Charles Stewart, the second of that unhappy name. + </p> + <p> + While he hesitated to follow his dumb guide any nearer, and felt the + embarrassment of being unable to communicate to her his repugnance to + further intrusion, a person in the royal retinue touched a light and + lively air on the flageolet, at a signal from the King, who desired to + have some tune repeated which had struck him in the theatre on the + preceding evening. While the good-natured monarch marked time with his + foot, and with the motion of his hand, Fenella continued to approach him, + and threw into her manner the appearance of one who was attracted, as it + were in spite of herself, by the sounds of the instrument. + </p> + <p> + Anxious to know how this was to end, and astonished to see the dumb girl + imitate so accurately the manner of one who actually heard the musical + notes, Peveril also drew near, though at somewhat greater distance. + </p> + <p> + The King looked good-humouredly at both, as if he admitted their musical + enthusiasm as an excuse for their intrusion; but his eyes became riveted + on Fenella, whose face and appearance, although rather singular than + beautiful, had something in them wild, fantastic, and, as being so, even + captivating, to an eye which had been gratified perhaps to satiety with + the ordinary forms of female beauty. She did not appear to notice how + closely she was observed; but, as if acting under an irresistible impulse, + derived from the sounds to which she seemed to listen, she undid the + bodkin round which her long tresses were winded, and flinging them + suddenly over her slender person, as if using them as a natural veil, she + began to dance, with infinite grace and agility, to the tune which the + flageolet played. + </p> + <p> + Peveril lost almost his sense of the King's presence, when he observed + with what wonderful grace and agility Fenella kept time to notes, which + could only be known to her by the motions of the musician's fingers. He + had heard, indeed, among other prodigies, of a person in Fenella's unhappy + situation acquiring, by some unaccountable and mysterious tact, the power + of acting as an instrumental musician, nay, becoming so accurate a + performer as to be capable of leading a musical band; and he also heard of + deaf and dumb persons dancing with sufficient accuracy, by observing the + motions of their partner. But Fenella's performance seemed more wonderful + than either, since the musician was guided by his written notes, and the + dancer by the motions of the others; whereas Fenella had no intimation, + save what she seemed to gather, with infinite accuracy, by observing the + motion of the artist's fingers on his small instrument. + </p> + <p> + As for the King, who was ignorant of the particular circumstances which + rendered Fenella's performance almost marvellous, he was contented, at her + first commencement, to authorise what seemed to him the frolic of this + singular-looking damsel, by a good-natured smile, but when he perceived + the exquisite truth and justice, as well as the wonderful combination of + grace and agility, with which she executed to this favourite air a dance + which was perfectly new to him, Charles turned his mere acquiescence into + something like enthusiastic applause. He bore time to her motions with the + movement of his foot—applauded with head and with hand—and + seemed, like herself, carried away by the enthusiasm of the gestic art. + </p> + <p> + After a rapid yet graceful succession of <i>entrechats</i>, Fenella + introduced a slow movement, which terminated the dance; then dropping a + profound courtesy, she continued to stand motionless before the King, her + arms folded on her bosom, her head stooped, and her eyes cast down, after + the manner of an Oriental slave; while through the misty veil of her + shadowy locks, it might be observed, that the colour which exercise had + called to her cheeks was dying fast away, and resigning them to their + native dusky hue. + </p> + <p> + "By my honour," exclaimed the King, "she is like a fairy who trips it in + moonlight. There must be more of air and fire than of earth in her + composition. It is well poor Nelly Gwyn saw her not, or she would have + died of grief and envy. Come, gentlemen, which of you contrived this + pretty piece of morning pastime?" + </p> + <p> + The courtiers looked at each other, but none of them felt authorised to + claim the merit of a service so agreeable. + </p> + <p> + "We must ask the quick-eyed nymph herself then," said the King; and, + looking at Fenella, he added, "Tell us, my pretty one, to whom we owe the + pleasure of seeing you?—I suspect the Duke of Buckingham; for this + is exactly a <i>tour de son métier</i>." + </p> + <p> + Fenella, on observing that the King addressed her, bowed low, and shook + her head, in signal that she did not understand what he said. "Oddsfish, + that is true," said the King; "she must perforce be a foreigner—her + complexion and agility speak it. France or Italy has had the moulding of + those elastic limbs, dark cheek, and eye of fire." He then put to her in + French, and again in Italian, the question, "By whom she had been sent + hither?" + </p> + <p> + At the second repetition, Fenella threw back her veiling tresses, so as to + show the melancholy which sat on her brow; while she sadly shook her head, + and intimated by imperfect muttering, but of the softest and most + plaintive kind, her organic deficiency. + </p> + <p> + "Is it possible Nature can have made such a fault?" said Charles. "Can she + have left so curious a piece as thou art without the melody of voice, + whilst she has made thee so exquisitely sensible to the beauty of sound?—Stay: + what means this? and what young fellow are you bringing up there? Oh, the + master of the show, I suppose.—Friend," he added, addressing himself + to Peveril, who, on the signal of Fenella, stepped forward almost + instinctively, and kneeled down, "we thank thee for the pleasure of this + morning.—My Lord Marquis, you rooked me at piquet last night; for + which disloyal deed thou shalt now atone, by giving a couple of pieces to + this honest youth, and five to the girl." + </p> + <p> + As the nobleman drew out his purse and came forward to perform the King's + generous commission, Julian felt some embarrassment ere he was able to + explain, that he had not title to be benefited by the young person's + performance, and that his Majesty had mistaken his character. + </p> + <p> + "And who art thou, then, my friend?" said Charles; "but, above all, and + particularly, who is this dancing nymph, whom thou standest waiting on + like an attendant fawn?" + </p> + <p> + "The young person is a retainer of the Countess-Dowager of Derby, so + please your Majesty," said Peveril, in a low tone of voice; "and I am——" + </p> + <p> + "Hold, hold," said the King; "this is a dance to another tune, and not fit + for a place so public. Hark thee, friend; do thou and the young woman + follow Empson where he will conduct thee.—Empson, carry them—hark + in thy ear." + </p> + <p> + "May it please your Majesty, I ought to say," said Peveril, "that I am + guiltless of any purpose of intrusion——" + </p> + <p> + "Now a plague on him who can take no hint," said the King, cutting short + his apology. "Oddsfish, man, there are times when civility is the greatest + impertinence in the world. Do thou follow Empson, and amuse thyself for a + half-hour's space with the fairy's company, till we shall send for you." + </p> + <p> + Charles spoke this not without casting an anxious eye around, and in a + tone which intimated apprehension of being overheard. Julian could only + bow obedience, and follow Empson, who was the same person that played so + rarely on the flageolet. + </p> + <p> + When they were out of sight of the King and his party, the musician wished + to enter into conversation with his companions, and addressed himself + first to Fenella with a broad compliment of, "By the mass, ye dance rarely—ne'er + a slut on the boards shows such a shank! I would be content to play to you + till my throat were as dry as my whistle. Come, be a little free—old + Rowley will not quit the Park till nine. I will carry you to + Spring-Garden, and bestow sweet-cakes and a quart of Rhenish on both of + you; and we'll be cameradoes,—What the devil? no answer?—How's + this, brother?—Is this neat wench of yours deaf or dumb or both? I + should laugh at that, and she trip it so well to the flageolet." + </p> + <p> + To rid himself of this fellow's discourse, Peveril answered him in French, + that he was a foreigner, and spoke no English; glad to escape, though at + the expense of a fiction, from the additional embarrassment of a fool, who + was likely to ask more questions than his own wisdom might have enabled + him to answer. + </p> + <p> + "<i>Étranger</i>—that means stranger," muttered their guide; "more + French dogs and jades come to lick the good English butter of our bread, + or perhaps an Italian puppet-show. Well if it were not that they have a + mortal enmity to the whole <i>gamut</i>, this were enough to make any + honest fellow turn Puritan. But if I am to play to her at the Duchess's, + I'll be d—d but I put her out in the tune, just to teach her to have + the impudence to come to England, and to speak no English." + </p> + <p> + Having muttered to himself this truly British resolution, the musician + walked briskly on towards a large house near the bottom of St. James's + Street, and entered the court, by a grated door from the Park, of which + the mansion commanded an extensive prospect. + </p> + <p> + Peveril finding himself in front of a handsome portico, under which opened + a stately pair of folding-doors, was about to ascend the steps that led to + the main entrance, when his guide seized him by the arm, exclaiming. + "Hold, Mounseer! What! you'll lose nothing, I see, for want of courage; + but you must keep the back way, for all your fine doublet. Here it is not, + knock, and it shall be opened; but may be instead, knock and you shall be + knocked." + </p> + <p> + Suffering himself to be guided by Empson, Julian deviated from the + principal door, to one which opened, with less ostentation, in an angle of + the courtyard. On a modest tap from the flute-player, admittance was + afforded him and his companions by a footman, who conducted them through a + variety of stone passages, to a very handsome summer parlour, where a + lady, or something resembling one, dressed in a style of extra elegance, + was trifling with a play-book while she finished her chocolate. It would + not be easy to describe her, but by weighing her natural good qualities + against the affectations which counterbalanced them. She would have been + handsome, but for rouge and <i>minauderie</i>—would have been civil, + but for overstrained airs of patronage and condescension—would have + had an agreeable voice, had she spoken in her natural tone—and fine + eyes, had she not made such desperate hard use of them. She could only + spoil a pretty ankle by too liberal display; but her shape, though she + could not yet be thirty years old, had the embon-point which might have + suited better with ten years more advanced. She pointed Empson to a seat + with the air of a Duchess, and asked him, languidly, how he did this age, + that she had not seen him? and what folks these were he had brought with + him? + </p> + <p> + "Foreigners, madam; d—d foreigners," answered Empson; "starving + beggars, that our old friend has picked up in the Park this morning—the + wench dances, and the fellow plays on the Jew's trump, I believe. On my + life, madam, I begin to be ashamed of old Rowley; I must discard him, + unless he keeps better company in future." + </p> + <p> + "Fie, Empson," said the lady; "consider it is our duty to countenance him, + and keep him afloat; and indeed I always make a principle of it. Hark ye, + he comes not hither this morning?" + </p> + <p> + "He will be here," answered Empson, "in the walking of a minuet." + </p> + <p> + "My God!" exclaimed the lady, with unaffected alarm; and starting up with + utter neglect of her usual and graceful languor, she tripped as swiftly as + a milk-maid into an adjoining apartment, where they heard presently a few + words of eager and animated discussion. + </p> + <p> + "Something to be put out of the way, I suppose," said Empson. "Well for + madam I gave her the hint. There he goes, the happy swain." + </p> + <p> + Julian was so situated, that he could, from the same casement through + which Empson was peeping, observe a man in a laced roquelaure, and + carrying his rapier under his arm, glide from the door by which he had + himself entered, and out of the court, keeping as much as possible under + the shade of the buildings. + </p> + <p> + The lady re-entered at this moment, and observing how Empson's eyes were + directed, said with a slight appearance of hurry, "A gentleman of the + Duchess of Portsmouth's with a billet; and so tiresomely pressing for an + answer, that I was obliged to write without my diamond pen. I have daubed + my fingers, I dare say," she added, looking at a very pretty hand, and + presently after dipping her fingers in a little silver vase of rose-water. + "But that little exotic monster of yours, Empson, I hope she really + understands no English?—On my life she coloured.—Is she such a + rare dancer?—I must see her dance, and hear him play on the Jew's + harp." + </p> + <p> + "Dance!" replied Empson; "she danced well enough when <i>I</i> played to + her. I can make anything dance. Old Counsellor Clubfoot danced when he had + a fit of the gout; you have seen no such <i>pas seul</i> in the theatre. I + would engage to make the Archbishop of Canterbury dance the hays like a + Frenchman. There is nothing in dancing; it all lies in the music. Rowley + does not know that now. He saw this poor wench dance; and thought so much + on't, when it was all along of me. I would have defied her to sit still. + And Rowley gives her the credit of it, and five pieces to boot; and I have + only two for my morning's work!" + </p> + <p> + "True, Master Empson," said the lady; "but you are of the family, though + in a lower station; and you ought to consider——" + </p> + <p> + "By G—, madam," answered Empson, "all I consider is, that I play the + best flageolet in England; and that they can no more supply my place, if + they were to discard me, than they could fill Thames from Fleet-Ditch." + </p> + <p> + "Well, Master Empson, I do not dispute but you are a man of talents," + replied the lady; "still, I say, mind the main chance—you please the + ear to-day—another has the advantage of you to-morrow." + </p> + <p> + "Never, mistress, while ears have the heavenly power of distinguishing one + note from another." + </p> + <p> + "Heavenly power, say you, Master Empson?" said the lady. + </p> + <p> + "Ay, madam, heavenly; for some very neat verses which we had at our + festival say, + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + 'What know we of the blest above, + But that they sing and that they love?' +</pre> + <p> + It is Master Waller wrote them, as I think; who, upon my word, ought to be + encouraged." + </p> + <p> + "And so should you, my dear Empson," said the dame, yawning, "were it only + for the honour you do to your own profession. But in the meantime, will + you ask these people to have some refreshment?—and will you take + some yourself?—the chocolate is that which the Ambassador Portuguese + fellow brought over to the Queen." + </p> + <p> + "If it be genuine," said the musician. + </p> + <p> + "How, sir?" said the fair one, half rising from her pile of cushions—"Not + genuine, and in this house!—Let me understand you, Master Empson—I + think, when I first saw you, you scarce knew chocolate from coffee." + </p> + <p> + "By G—, madam," answered the flageolet-player, "you are perfectly + right. And how can I show better how much I have profited by your + ladyship's excellent cheer, except by being critical?" + </p> + <p> + "You stand excused, Master Empson," said the <i>petite maitresse</i>, + sinking gently back on the downy couch, from which a momentary irritation + had startled her—"I think the chocolate will please you, though + scarce equal to what we had from the Spanish resident Mendoza.—But + we must offer these strange people something. Will you ask them if they + would have coffee and chocolate, or cold wild-fowl, fruit, and wine? They + must be treated, so as to show them where they are, since here they are." + </p> + <p> + "Unquestionably, madam," said Empson; "but I have just at this instant + forgot the French for chocolate, hot bread, coffee, game, and drinkables." + </p> + <p> + "It is odd," said the lady; "and I have forgot my French and Italian at + the same moment. But it signifies little—I will order the things to + be brought, and they will remember the names of them themselves." + </p> + <p> + Empson laughed loudly at this jest, and pawned his soul that the cold + sirloin which entered immediately after, was the best emblem of roast-beef + all the world over. Plentiful refreshments were offered to all the party, + of which both Fenella and Peveril partook. + </p> + <p> + In the meanwhile, the flageolet-player drew closer to the side of the lady + of the mansion—their intimacy was cemented, and their spirits set + afloat, by a glass of liqueur, which gave them additional confidence in + discussing the characters, as well of the superior attendants of the + Court, as of the inferior rank, to which they themselves might be supposed + to belong. + </p> + <p> + The lady, indeed, during this conversation, frequently exerted her + complete and absolute superiority over Master Empson; in which that + musical gentleman humbly acquiesced whenever the circumstance was recalled + to his attention, whether in the way of blunt contradiction, sarcastic + insinuation, downright assumption of higher importance, or in any of the + other various modes by which such superiority is usually asserted and + maintained. But the lady's obvious love of scandal was the lure which very + soon brought her again down from the dignified part which for a moment she + assumed, and placed her once more on a gossiping level with her companion. + </p> + <p> + Their conversation was too trivial, and too much allied to petty Court + intrigues, with which he was totally unacquainted, to be in the least + interesting to Julian. As it continued for more than an hour, he soon + ceased to pay the least attention to a discourse consisting of nicknames, + patchwork, and innuendo; and employed himself in reflecting on his own + complicated affairs, and the probable issue of his approaching audience + with the King, which had been brought about by so singular an agent, and + by means so unexpected. He often looked to his guide, Fenella; and + observed that she was, for the greater part of the time, drowned in deep + and abstracted meditation. But three or four times—and it was when + the assumed airs and affected importance of the musician and their hostess + rose to the most extravagant excess—he observed that Fenella dealt + askance on them some of those bitter and almost blighting elfin looks, + which in the Isle of Man were held to imply contemptuous execration. There + was something in all her manner so extraordinary, joined to her sudden + appearance, and her demeanour in the King's presence, so oddly, yet so + well contrived to procure him a private audience—which he might, by + graver means, have sought in vain—that it almost justified the idea, + though he smiled at it internally, that the little mute agent was aided in + her machinations by the kindred imps, to whom, according to Manx + superstition, her genealogy was to be traced. + </p> + <p> + Another idea sometimes occurred to Julian, though he rejected the + question, as being equally wild with those doubts which referred Fenella + to a race different from that of mortals—"Was she really afflicted + with those organical imperfections which had always seemed to sever her + from humanity?—If not, what could be the motives of so young a + creature practising so dreadful a penance for such an unremitted term of + years? And how formidable must be the strength of mind which could condemn + itself to so terrific a sacrifice—How deep and strong the purpose + for which it was undertaken!" + </p> + <p> + But a brief recollection of past events enabled him to dismiss this + conjecture as altogether wild and visionary. He had but to call to memory + the various stratagems practised by his light-hearted companion, the young + Earl of Derby, upon this forlorn girl—the conversations held in her + presence, in which the character of a creature so irritable and sensitive + upon all occasions, was freely, and sometimes satirically discussed, + without her expressing the least acquaintance with what was going forward, + to convince him that so deep a deception could never have been practised + for so many years, by a being of a turn of mind so peculiarly jealous and + irascible. + </p> + <p> + He renounced, therefore, the idea, and turned his thoughts to his own + affairs, and his approaching interview with his Sovereign; in which + meditation we propose to leave him, until we briefly review the changes + which had taken place in the situation of Alice Bridgenorth. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0031" id="link2HCH0031"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXI + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + I fear the devil worst when gown and cassock, + Or, in the lack of them, old Calvin's cloak, + Conceals his cloven hoof. + —ANONYMOUS. +</pre> + <p> + Julian Peveril had scarce set sail for Whitehaven, when Alice Bridgenorth + and her governante, at the hasty command of her father, were embarked with + equal speed and secrecy on board of a bark bound for Liverpool. Christian + accompanied them on their voyage, as the friend to whose guardianship + Alice was to be consigned during any future separation from her father, + and whose amusing conversation, joined to his pleasing though cold + manners, as well as his near relationship, induced Alice, in her forlorn + situation, to consider her fate as fortunate in having such a guardian. + </p> + <p> + At Liverpool, as the reader already knows, Christian took the first overt + step in the villainy which he had contrived against the innocent girl, by + exposing her at a meeting-house to the unhallowed gaze of Chiffinch, in + order to convince him she was possessed of such uncommon beauty as might + well deserve the infamous promotion to which they meditated to raise her. + </p> + <p> + Highly satisfied with her personal appearance, Chiffinch was no less so + with the sense and delicacy of her conversation, when he met her in + company with her uncle afterwards in London. The simplicity, and at the + same time the spirit of her remarks, made him regard her as his scientific + attendant the cook might have done a newly invented sauce, sufficiently <i>piquante</i> + in its qualities to awaken the jaded appetite of a cloyed and gorged + epicure. She was, he said and swore, the very corner-stone on which, with + proper management, and with his instruction, a few honest fellows might + build a Court fortune. + </p> + <p> + That the necessary introduction might take place, the confederates judged + fit she should be put under the charge of an experienced lady, whom some + called Mistress Chiffinch, and others Chiffinch's mistress—one of + those obliging creatures who are willing to discharge all the duties of a + wife, without the inconvenient and indissoluble ceremony. + </p> + <p> + It was one, and not perhaps the least prejudicial consequence of the + license of that ill-governed time, that the bounds betwixt virtue and vice + were so far smoothed down and levelled, that the frail wife, or the tender + friend who was no wife, did not necessarily lose their place in society; + but, on the contrary, if they moved in the higher circles, were permitted + and encouraged to mingle with women whose rank was certain, and whose + reputation was untainted. + </p> + <p> + A regular <i>liaison</i>, like that of Chiffinch and his fair one, + inferred little scandal; and such was his influence, as prime minister of + his master's pleasures, that, as Charles himself expressed it, the lady + whom we introduced to our readers in the last chapter, had obtained a + brevet commission to rank as a married woman. And to do the gentle dame + justice, no wife could have been more attentive to forward his plans, or + more liberal in disposing of his income. + </p> + <p> + She inhabited a set of apartments called Chiffinch's—the scene of + many an intrigue, both of love and politics; and where Charles often held + his private parties for the evening, when, as frequently happened, the + ill-humour of the Duchess of Portsmouth, his reigning Sultana, prevented + his supping with her. The hold which such an arrangement gave a man like + Chiffinch, used as he well knew how to use it, made him of too much + consequence to be slighted even by the first persons in the state, unless + they stood aloof from all manner of politics and Court intrigue. + </p> + <p> + In the charge of Mistress Chiffinch, and of him whose name she bore, + Edward Christian placed the daughter of his sister, and of his confiding + friend, calmly contemplating her ruin as an event certain to follow; and + hoping to ground upon it his own chance of a more assured fortune, than a + life spent in intrigue had hitherto been able to procure for him. + </p> + <p> + The innocent Alice, without being able to discover what was wrong either + in the scenes of unusual luxury with which she was surrounded, or in the + manners of her hostess, which, both from nature and policy, were kind and + caressing—felt nevertheless an instinctive apprehension that all was + not right—a feeling in the human mind, allied, perhaps, to that + sense of danger which animals exhibit when placed in the vicinity of the + natural enemies of their race, and which makes birds cower when the hawk + is in the air, and beasts tremble when the tiger is abroad in the desert. + There was a heaviness at her heart which she could not dispel; and the few + hours which she had already spent at Chiffinch's were like those passed in + prison by one unconscious of the cause or event of his captivity. It was + the third morning after her arrival in London, that the scene took place + which we now recur to. + </p> + <p> + The impertinence and vulgarity of Empson, which was permitted to him as an + unrivalled performer upon his instrument, were exhausting themselves at + the expense of all other musical professors, and Mrs. Chiffinch was + listening with careless indifference, when some one was heard speaking + loudly, and with animation, in the inner apartment. + </p> + <p> + "Oh, gemini and gilliflower water!" exclaimed the damsel, startled out of + her fine airs into her natural vulgarity of exclamation, and running to + the door of communication—"if he has not come back again after all!—and + if old Rowley——" + </p> + <p> + A tap at the farther and opposite door here arrested her attention—she + quitted the handle of that which she was about to open as speedily as if + it had burnt her fingers, and, moving back towards her couch, asked, "Who + is there?" + </p> + <p> + "Old Rowley himself, madam," said the King, entering the apartment with + his usual air of easy composure. + </p> + <p> + "O crimini!—your Majesty!—I thought——" + </p> + <p> + "That I was out of hearing, doubtless," said the King; "and spoke of me as + folk speak of absent friends. Make no apology. I think I have heard ladies + say of their lace, that a rent is better than a darn.—Nay, be + seated.—Where is Chiffinch?" + </p> + <p> + "He is down at York House, your Majesty," said the dame, recovering, + though with no small difficulty, the calm affectation of her usual + demeanour. "Shall I send your Majesty's commands?" + </p> + <p> + "I will wait his return," said the King.—"Permit me to taste your + chocolate." + </p> + <p> + "There is some fresh frothed in the office," said the lady; and using a + little silver call, or whistle, a black boy, superbly dressed, like an + Oriental page, with gold bracelets on his naked arms, and a gold collar + around his equally bare neck, attended with the favourite beverage of the + morning, in an apparatus of the richest china. + </p> + <p> + While he sipped his cup of chocolate, the King looked round the apartment, + and observing Fenella, Peveril, and the musician, who remained standing + beside a large Indian screen, he continued, addressing Mistress Chiffinch, + though with polite indifference, "I sent you the fiddles this morning—or + rather the flute—Empson, and a fairy elf whom I met in the Park, who + dances divinely. She has brought us the very newest saraband from the + Court of Queen Mab, and I sent her here, that you may see it at leisure." + </p> + <p> + "Your Majesty does me by far too much honour," said Chiffinch, her eyes + properly cast down, and her accents minced into becoming humility. + </p> + <p> + "Nay, little Chiffinch," answered the King, in a tone of as contemptuous + familiarity as was consistent with his good-breeding, "it was not + altogether for thine own private ear, though quite deserving of all sweet + sounds; but I thought Nelly had been with thee this morning." + </p> + <p> + "I can send Bajazet for her, your Majesty," answered the lady. + </p> + <p> + "Nay, I will not trouble your little heathen sultan to go so far. Still it + strikes me that Chiffinch said you had company—some country cousin, + or such a matter—Is there not such a person?" + </p> + <p> + "There is a young person from the country," said Mistress Chiffinch, + striving to conceal a considerable portion of embarrassment; "but she is + unprepared for such an honour as to be admitted into your Majesty's + presence, and——" + </p> + <p> + "And therefore the fitter to receive it, Chiffinch. There is nothing in + nature so beautiful as the first blush of a little rustic between joy and + fear, and wonder and curiosity. It is the down on the peach—pity it + decays so soon!—the fruit remains, but the first high colouring and + exquisite flavour are gone.—Never put up thy lip for the matter, + Chiffinch, for it is as I tell you; so pray let us have <i>la belle + cousine</i>." + </p> + <p> + Mistress Chiffinch, more embarrassed than ever, again advanced towards the + door of communication, which she had been in the act of opening when his + Majesty entered. But just as she coughed pretty loudly, perhaps as a + signal to some one within, voices were again heard in a raised tone of + altercation——the door was flung open, and Alice rushed out of + the inner apartment, followed to the door of it by the enterprising Duke + of Buckingham, who stood fixed with astonishment on finding his pursuit of + the flying fair one had hurried him into the presence of the King. + </p> + <p> + Alice Bridgenorth appeared too much transported with anger to permit her + to pay attention to the rank or character of the company into which she + had thus suddenly entered. "I remain no longer here, madam," she said to + Mrs. Chiffinch, in a tone of uncontrollable resolution; "I leave instantly + a house where I am exposed to company which I detest, and to solicitations + which I despise." + </p> + <p> + The dismayed Mrs. Chiffinch could only implore her, in broken whispers, to + be silent; adding, while she pointed to Charles, who stood with his eyes + fixed rather on his audacious courtier than on the game which he pursued, + "The King—the King!" + </p> + <p> + "If I am in the King's presence," said Alice aloud, and in the same + torrent of passionate feeling, while her eye sparkled through tears of + resentment and insulted modesty, "it is the better—it is his + Majesty's duty to protect me; and on his protection I throw myself." + </p> + <p> + These words, which were spoken aloud, and boldly, at once recalled Julian + to himself, who had hitherto stood, as it were, bewildered. He approached + Alice, and, whispering in her ear that she had beside her one who would + defend her with his life, implored her to trust to his guardianship in + this emergency. + </p> + <p> + Clinging to his arm in all the ecstasy of gratitude and joy, the spirit + which had so lately invigorated Alice in her own defence, gave way in a + flood of tears, when she saw herself supported by him whom perhaps she + most wished to recognise as her protector. She permitted Peveril gently to + draw her back towards the screen before which he had been standing; where, + holding by his arm, but at the same time endeavouring to conceal herself + behind him, they waited the conclusion of a scene so singular. + </p> + <p> + The King seemed at first so much surprised at the unexpected apparition of + the Duke of Buckingham, as to pay little or no attention to Alice, who had + been the means of thus unceremoniously introducing his Grace into the + presence at a most unsuitable moment. In that intriguing Court, it had not + been the first time that the Duke had ventured to enter the lists of + gallantry in rivalry of his Sovereign, which made the present insult the + more intolerable. His purpose of lying concealed in those private + apartments was explained by the exclamations of Alice; and Charles, + notwithstanding the placidity of his disposition, and his habitual guard + over his passions, resented the attempt to seduce his destined mistress, + as an Eastern Sultan would have done the insolence of a vizier, who + anticipated his intended purchases of captive beauty in the slave-market. + The swarthy features of Charles reddened, and the strong lines on his dark + visage seemed to become inflated, as he said, in a voice which faltered + with passion, "Buckingham, you dared not have thus insulted your equal! To + your master you may securely offer any affront, since his rank glues his + sword to the scabbard." + </p> + <p> + The haughty Duke did not brook this taunt unanswered. "My sword," he said, + with emphasis, "was never in the scabbard, when your Majesty's service + required it should be unsheathed." + </p> + <p> + "Your Grace means, when its service was required for its master's + interest," said the King; "for you could only gain the coronet of a Duke + by fighting for the royal crown. But it is over—I have treated you + as a friend—a companion—almost an equal—you have repaid + me with insolence and ingratitude." + </p> + <p> + "Sire," answered the Duke firmly, but respectfully, "I am unhappy in your + displeasure; yet thus far fortunate, that while your words can confer + honour, they cannot impair or take it away.—It is hard," he added, + lowering his voice, so as only to be heard by the King,—"It is hard + that the squall of a peevish wench should cancel the services of so many + years!" + </p> + <p> + "It is harder," said the King, in the same subdued tone, which both + preserved through the rest of the conversation, "that a wench's bright + eyes can make a nobleman forget the decencies due to his Sovereign's + privacy." + </p> + <p> + "May I presume to ask your Majesty what decencies are those?" said the + Duke. + </p> + <p> + Charles bit his lip to keep himself from smiling. "Buckingham," he said, + "this is a foolish business; and we must not forget (as we have nearly + done), that we have an audience to witness this scene, and should walk the + stage with dignity. I will show you your fault in private." + </p> + <p> + "It is enough that your Majesty has been displeased, and that I have + unhappily been the occasion," said the Duke, kneeling; "although quite + ignorant of any purpose beyond a few words of gallantry; and I sue thus + low for your Majesty's pardon." + </p> + <p> + So saying, he kneeled gracefully down. "Thou hast it, George," said the + placable Prince. "I believe thou wilt be sooner tired of offending than I + of forgiving." + </p> + <p> + "Long may your Majesty live to give the offence, with which it is your + royal pleasure at present to charge my innocence," said the Duke. + </p> + <p> + "What mean you by that, my lord?" said Charles, the angry shade returning + to his brow for a moment. + </p> + <p> + "My Liege," replied the Duke, "you are too honourable to deny your custom + of shooting with Cupid's bird-bolts in other men's warrens. You have ta'en + the royal right of free-forestry over every man's park. It is hard that + you should be so much displeased at hearing a chance arrow whizz near your + own pales." + </p> + <p> + "No more on't," said the King; "but let us see where the dove has + harboured." + </p> + <p> + "The Helen has found a Paris while we were quarrelling," replied the Duke. + </p> + <p> + "Rather an Orpheus," said the King; "and what is worse, one that is + already provided with a Eurydice—She is clinging to the fiddler." + </p> + <p> + "It is mere fright," said Buckingham, "like Rochester's, when he crept + into the bass-viol to hide himself from Sir Dermot O'Cleaver." + </p> + <p> + "We must make the people show their talents," said the King, "and stop + their mouths with money and civility, or we shall have this foolish + encounter over half the town." + </p> + <p> + The King then approached Julian, and desired him to take his instrument, + and cause his female companion to perform a saraband. + </p> + <p> + "I had already the honour to inform your Majesty," said Julian, "that I + cannot contribute to your pleasure in the way you command me; and that + this young person is——" + </p> + <p> + "A retainer of the Lady Powis," said the King, upon whose mind things not + connected with his pleasures made a very slight impression. "Poor lady, + she is in trouble about the lords in the Tower." + </p> + <p> + "Pardon me, sir," said Julian, "she is a dependant of the Countess of + Derby." + </p> + <p> + "True, true," answered Charles; "it is indeed of Lady Derby, who hath also + her own distresses in these times. Do you know who taught the young person + to dance? Some of her steps mightily resemble Le Jeune's of Paris." + </p> + <p> + "I presume she was taught abroad, sir," said Julian; "for myself, I am + charged with some weighty business by the Countess, which I would + willingly communicate to your Majesty." + </p> + <p> + "We will send you to our Secretary of State," said the King. "But this + dancing envoy will oblige us once more, will she not?—Empson, now + that I remember, it was to your pipe that she danced—Strike up, man, + and put mettle into her feet." + </p> + <p> + Empson began to play a well-known measure; and, as he had threatened, made + more than one false note, until the King, whose ear was very accurate, + rebuked him with, "Sirrah, art thou drunk at this early hour, or must thou + too be playing thy slippery tricks with me? Thou thinkest thou art born to + beat time, but I will have time beat into thee." + </p> + <p> + The hint was sufficient, and Empson took good care so to perform his air + as to merit his high and deserved reputation. But on Fenella it made not + the slightest impression. She rather leant than stood against the wall of + the apartment; her countenance as pale as death, her arms and hands + hanging down as if stiffened, and her existence only testified by the sobs + which agitated her bosom, and the tears which flowed from her half-closed + eyes. + </p> + <p> + "A plague on it," said the King, "some evil spirit is abroad this morning; + and the wenches are all bewitched, I think. Cheer up, my girl. What, in + the devil's name, has changed thee at once from a Nymph to a Niobe? If + thou standest there longer thou wilt grow to the very marble wall—Or—oddsfish, + George, have you been bird-bolting in this quarter also?" + </p> + <p> + Ere Buckingham could answer to this charge, Julian again kneeled down to + the King, and prayed to be heard, were it only for five minutes. "The + young woman," he said, "had been long in attendance of the Countess of + Derby. She was bereaved of the faculties of speech and hearing." + </p> + <p> + "Oddsfish, man, and dances so well?" said the King. "Nay, all Gresham + College shall never make me believe that." + </p> + <p> + "I would have thought it equally impossible, but for what I to-day + witnessed," said Julian; "but only permit me, sir, to deliver the petition + of my lady the Countess." + </p> + <p> + "And who art thou thyself, man?" said the Sovereign; "for though + everything which wears bodice and breast-knot has a right to speak to a + King, and be answered, I know not that they have a title to audience + through an envoy extraordinary." + </p> + <p> + "I am Julian Peveril of Derbyshire," answered the supplicant, "the son of + Sir Geoffrey Peveril of Martindale Castle, who——" + </p> + <p> + "Body of me—the old Worcester man?" said the King. "Oddsfish, I + remember him well—some harm has happened to him, I think—Is he + not dead, or very sick at least?" + </p> + <p> + "Ill at ease, and it please your Majesty, but not ill in health. He has + been imprisoned on account of an alleged accession to this Plot." + </p> + <p> + "Look you there," said the King; "I knew he was in trouble; and yet how to + help the stout old Knight, I can hardly tell. I can scarce escape + suspicion of the Plot myself, though the principal object of it is to take + away my own life. Were I to stir to save a plotter, I should certainly be + brought in as an accessory.—Buckingham, thou hast some interest with + those who built this fine state engine, or at least who have driven it on—be + good-natured for once, though it is scarcely thy wont, and interfere to + shelter our old Worcester friend, Sir Godfrey. You have not forgot him?" + </p> + <p> + "No, sir," answered the Duke; "for I never heard the name." + </p> + <p> + "It is Sir Geoffrey his Majesty would say," said Julian. + </p> + <p> + "And if his Majesty <i>did</i> say Sir Geoffrey, Master Peveril, I cannot + see of what use I can be to your father," replied the Duke coldly. "He is + accused of a heavy crime; and a British subject so accused, can have no + shelter either from prince or peer, but must stand to the award and + deliverance of God and his country." + </p> + <p> + "Now, Heaven forgive thee thy hypocrisy, George," said the King hastily. + "I would rather hear the devil preach religion than thee teach patriotism. + Thou knowest as well as I, that the nation is in a scarlet fever for fear + of the poor Catholics, who are not two men to five hundred; and that the + public mind is so harassed with new narrations of conspiracy, and fresh + horrors every day, that people have as little real sense of what is just + or unjust as men who talk in their sleep of what is sense or nonsense. I + have borne, and borne with it—I have seen blood flow on the + scaffold, fearing to thwart the nation in its fury—and I pray to God + that I or mine be not called on to answer for it. I will no longer swim + with the torrent, which honour and conscience call upon me to stem—I + will act the part of a Sovereign, and save my people from doing injustice, + even in their own despite." + </p> + <p> + Charles walked hastily up and down the room as he expressed these unwonted + sentiments, with energy equally unwonted. After a momentary pause, the + Duke answered him gravely, "Spoken like a Royal King, sir, but—pardon + me—not like a King of England." + </p> + <p> + Charles paused, as the Duke spoke, beside a window which looked full on + Whitehall, and his eye was involuntarily attracted by the fatal window of + the Banqueting House out of which his unhappy father was conducted to + execution. Charles was naturally, or, more purposely, constitutionally + brave; but a life of pleasure, together with the habit of governing his + course rather by what was expedient than by what was right, rendered him + unapt to dare the same scene of danger or of martyrdom, which had closed + his father's life and reign; and the thought came over his half-formed + resolution, like the rain upon a kindling beacon. In another man, his + perplexity would have seemed almost ludicrous; but Charles would not lose, + even under these circumstances, the dignity and grace, which were as + natural to him as his indifference and good humour. "Our Council must + decide in this matter," he said, looking to the Duke; "and be assured, + young man," he added, addressing Julian, "your father shall not want an + intercessor in his King, so far as the laws will permit my interference in + his behalf." + </p> + <p> + Julian was about to retire, when Fenella, with a marked look, put into his + hand a slip of paper, on which she had hastily written, "The packet—give + him the packet." + </p> + <p> + After a moment's hesitation, during which he reflected that Fenella was + the organ of the Countess's pleasure, Julian resolved to obey. "Permit me, + then, Sire," he said, "to place in your royal hands this packet, entrusted + to me by the Countess of Derby. The letters have already been once taken + from me; and I have little hope that I can now deliver them as they are + addressed. I place them, therefore, in your royal hands, certain that they + will evince the innocence of the writer." + </p> + <p> + The King shook his head as he took the packet reluctantly. "It is no safe + office you have undertaken, young man. A messenger has sometimes his + throat cut for the sake of his despatches—But give them to me; and, + Chiffinch, give me wax and a taper." He employed himself in folding the + Countess's packet in another envelope. "Buckingham," he said, "you are + evidence that I do not read them till the Council shall see them." + </p> + <p> + Buckingham approached, and offered his services in folding the parcel, but + Charles rejected his assistance; and having finished his task, he sealed + the packet with his own signet-ring. The Duke bit his lip and retired. + </p> + <p> + "And now, young man," said the King, "your errand is sped, so far as it + can at present be forwarded." + </p> + <p> + Julian bowed deeply, as to take leave at these words, which he rightly + interpreted as a signal for his departure. Alice Bridgenorth still clung + to his arm, and motioned to withdraw along with him. The King and + Buckingham looked at each other in conscious astonishment, and yet not + without a desire to smile, so strange did it seem to them that a prize, + for which, an instant before, they had been mutually contending, should + thus glide out of their grasp, or rather be borne off by a third and very + inferior competitor. + </p> + <p> + "Mistress Chiffinch," said the King, with a hesitation which he could not + disguise, "I hope your fair charge is not about to leave you?" + </p> + <p> + "Certainly not, your Majesty," answered Chiffinch. "Alice, my love—you + mistake—that opposite door leads to your apartments." + </p> + <p> + "Pardon me, madam," answered Alice; "I have indeed mistaken my road, but + it was when I came hither." + </p> + <p> + "The errant damosel," said Buckingham, looking at Charles with as much + intelligence as etiquette permitted him to throw into his eye, and then + turning it towards Alice, as she still held by Julian's arm, "is resolved + not to mistake her road a second time. She has chosen a sufficient guide." + </p> + <p> + "And yet stories tell that such guides have led maidens astray," said the + King. + </p> + <p> + Alice blushed deeply, but instantly recovered her composure so soon as she + saw that her liberty was likely to depend upon the immediate exercise of + resolution. She quitted, from a sense of insulted delicacy, the arm of + Julian, to which she had hitherto clung; but as she spoke, she continued + to retain a slight grasp of his cloak. "I have indeed mistaken my way," + she repeated still addressing Mrs. Chiffinch, "but it was when I crossed + this threshold. The usage to which I have been exposed in your house has + determined me to quit it instantly." + </p> + <p> + "I will not permit that, my young mistress," answered Mrs. Chiffinch, + "until your uncle, who placed you under my care, shall relieve me of the + charge of you." + </p> + <p> + "I will answer for my conduct, both to my uncle, and, what is of more + importance, to my father," said Alice. "You must permit me to depart, + madam; I am free-born, and you have no right to detain me." + </p> + <p> + "Pardon me, my young madam," said Mistress Chiffinch, "I have a right, and + I will maintain it too." + </p> + <p> + "I will know that before quitting this presence," said Alice firmly; and, + advancing a step or two, she dropped on her knee before the King. "Your + Majesty," said she, "if indeed I kneel before King Charles, is the father + of your subjects." + </p> + <p> + "Of a good many of them," said the Duke of Buckingham apart. + </p> + <p> + "I demand protection of you, in the name of God, and of the oath your + Majesty swore when you placed on your head the crown of this kingdom!" + </p> + <p> + "You have my protection," said the King, a little confused by an appeal so + unexpected and so solemn. "Do but remain quiet with this lady, with whom + your parents have placed you; neither Buckingham nor any one else shall + intrude on you." + </p> + <p> + "His Majesty," added Buckingham, in the same tone, and speaking from the + restless and mischief-making spirit of contradiction, which he never could + restrain, even when indulging it was most contrary, not only to propriety, + but to his own interest,—"His Majesty will protect you, fair lady, + from all intrusion save what must not be termed such." + </p> + <p> + Alice darted a keen look on the Duke, as if to read his meaning; another + on Charles, to know whether she had guessed it rightly. There was a guilty + confession on the King's brow, which confirmed Alice's determination to + depart. "Your Majesty will forgive me," she said; "it is not here that I + can enjoy the advantage of your royal protection. I am resolved to leave + this house. If I am detained, it must be by violence, which I trust no one + dare offer to me in your Majesty's presence. This gentleman, whom I have + long known, will conduct me to my friends." + </p> + <p> + "We make but an indifferent figure in this scene, methinks," said the + King, addressing the Duke of Buckingham, and speaking in a whisper; "but + she must go—I neither will, nor dare, stop her from returning to her + father." + </p> + <p> + "And if she does," swore the Duke internally, "I would, as Sir Andrew + Smith saith, I might never touch fair lady's hand." And stepping back, he + spoke a few words with Empson the musician, who left the apartment, for a + few minutes, and presently returned. + </p> + <p> + The King seemed irresolute concerning the part he should act under + circumstances so peculiar. To be foiled in a gallant intrigue, was to + subject himself to the ridicule of his gay court; to persist in it by any + means which approached to constraint, would have been tyrannical; and, + what perhaps he might judge as severe an imputation, it would have been + unbecoming a gentleman. "Upon my honour, young lady," he said, with an + emphasis, "you have nothing to fear in this house. But it is improper, for + your own sake, that you should leave it in this abrupt manner. If you will + have the goodness to wait but a quarter of an hour, Mistress Chiffinch's + coach will be placed at your command, to transport you where you will. + Spare yourself the ridicule, and me the pain of seeing you leave the house + of one of my servants, as if you were escaping from a prison." + </p> + <p> + The King spoke in good-natured sincerity, and Alice was inclined for an + instant to listen to his advice; but recollecting that she had to search + for her father and uncle, or, failing them, for some suitable place of + secure residence, it rushed on her mind that the attendants of Mistress + Chiffinch were not likely to prove trusty guides or assistants in such a + purpose. Firmly and respectfully she announced her purpose of instant + departure. She needed no other escort, she said, than what this gentleman, + Master Julian Peveril, who was well known to her father, would willingly + afford her; nor did she need that farther than until she had reached her + father's residence. + </p> + <p> + "Farewell, then, lady, a God's name!" said the King; "I am sorry so much + beauty should be wedded to so many shrewish suspicions.—For you, + Master Peveril, I should have thought you had enough to do with your own + affairs without interfering with the humours of the fair sex. The duty of + conducting all strayed damsels into the right path is, as matters go in + this good city, rather too weighty an undertaking for your youth and + inexperience." + </p> + <p> + Julian, eager to conduct Alice from a place of which he began fully to + appreciate the perils, answered nothing to this taunt, but bowing + reverently, led her from the apartment. Her sudden appearance, and the + animated scene which followed, had entirely absorbed, for the moment, the + recollection of his father and of the Countess of Derby; and while the + dumb attendant of the latter remained in the room, a silent, and, as it + were, stunned spectator of all that had happened, Peveril had become, in + the predominating interest of Alice's critical situation, totally + forgetful of her presence. But no sooner had he left the room, without + noticing or attending to her, than Fenella, starting, as from a trance, + drew herself up, and looked wildly around, like one waking from a dream, + as if to assure herself that her companion was gone, and gone without + paying the slightest attention to her. She folded her hands together, and + cast her eyes upwards, with an expression of such agony as explained to + Charles (as he thought) what painful ideas were passing in her mind. "This + Peveril is a perfect pattern of successful perfidy, carrying off this + Queen of the Amazons, but he has left us, I think, a disconsolate Ariadne + in her place.—But weep not, my princess of pretty movements," he + said, addressing himself to Fenella; "if we cannot call in Bacchus to + console you, we will commit you to the care of Empson, who shall drink + with <i>Liber Pater</i> for a thousand pounds, and I will say done first." + </p> + <p> + As the King spoke these words, Fenella rushed past him with her wonted + rapidity of step, and, with much less courtesy than was due to the royal + presence, hurried downstairs, and out of the house, without attempting to + open any communication with the Monarch. He saw her abrupt departure with + more surprise than displeasure; and presently afterwards, bursting into a + fit of laughter, he said to the Duke, "Oddsfish, George, this young spark + might teach the best of us how to manage the wenches. I have had my own + experience, but I could never yet contrive either to win or lose them with + so little ceremony." + </p> + <p> + "Experience, sir," replied the duke, "cannot be acquired without years." + </p> + <p> + "True, George; and you would, I suppose, insinuate," said Charles, "that + the gallant who acquires it, loses as much in youth as he gains in art? I + defy your insinuation, George. You cannot overreach your master, old as + you think him, either in love or politics. You have not the secret <i>plumer + la poule sans la faire crier</i>, witness this morning's work. I will give + you odds at all games—ay, and at the Mall too, if thou darest accept + my challenge.—Chiffinch, what for dost thou convulse thy pretty + throat and face with sobbing and hatching tears, which seem rather + unwilling to make their appearance!" + </p> + <p> + "It is for fear," whined Chiffinch, "that your Majesty should think—that + you should expect——" + </p> + <p> + "That I should expect gratitude from a courtier, or faith from a woman?" + answered the King, patting her at the same time under the chin, to make + her raise her face—"Tush! chicken, I am not so superfluous." + </p> + <p> + "There it is now," said Chiffinch, continuing to sob the more bitterly, as + she felt herself unable to produce any tears; "I see your Majesty is + determined to lay all the blame on me, when I am innocent as an unborn + babe—I will be judged by his Grace." + </p> + <p> + "No doubt, no doubt, Chiffie," said the King. "His Grace and you will be + excellent judges in each other's cause, and as good witnesses in each + other's favour. But to investigate the matter impartially, we must examine + our evidence apart.—My Lord Duke, we meet at the Mall at noon, if + your Grace dare accept my challenge." + </p> + <p> + His Grace of Buckingham bowed, and retired. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0032" id="link2HCH0032"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXII + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + But when the bully with assuming pace, + Cocks his broad hat, edged round with tarnish'd lace, + Yield not the way—defy his strutting pride, + And thrust him to the muddy kennel's side, + Yet rather bear the shower and toils of mud, + Than in the doubtful quarrel risk thy blood. + —GAY'S TRIVIA. +</pre> + <p> + Julian Peveril, half-leading, half-supporting, Alice Bridgenorth, had + reached the middle of Saint Jame's Street ere the doubt occurred to him + which way they should bend their course. He then asked Alice whither he + should conduct her, and learned, to his surprise and embarrassment, that, + far from knowing where her father was to be found, she had no certain + knowledge that he was in London, and only hoped that he had arrived, from + the expressions which he had used at parting. She mentioned her uncle + Christian's address, but it was with doubt and hesitation, arising from + the hands in which he had already placed her; and her reluctance to go + again under his protection was strongly confirmed by her youthful guide, + when a few words had established to his conviction the identity of + Ganlesse and Christian.—What then was to be done? + </p> + <p> + "Alice," said Julian, after a moment's reflection, "you must seek your + earliest and best friend—I mean my mother. She has now no castle in + which to receive you—she has but a miserable lodging, so near the + jail in which my father is confined, that it seems almost a cell of the + same prison. I have not seen her since my coming hither; but thus much + have I learned by inquiry. We will now go to her apartment; such as it is, + I know she will share it with one so innocent and so unprotected as you + are." + </p> + <p> + "Gracious Heaven!" said the poor girl, "am I then so totally deserted, + that I must throw myself on the mercy of her who, of all the world, has + most reason to spurn me from her?—Julian, can you advise me to this?—Is + there none else who will afford me a few hours' refuge, till I can hear + from my father?—No other protectress but her whose ruin has, I fear, + been accelerated by——Julian, I dare not appear before your + mother! she must hate me for my family, and despise me for my meanness. To + be a second time cast on her protection, when the first has been so evil + repaid—Julian, I dare not go with you." + </p> + <p> + "She has never ceased to love you, Alice," said her conductor, whose steps + she continued to attend, even while declaring her resolution not to go + with him, "she never felt anything but kindness towards you, nay, towards + your father; for though his dealings with us have been harsh, she can + allow much for the provocation which he has received. Believe me, with her + you will be safe as with a mother—perhaps it may be the means of + reconciling the divisions by which we have suffered so much." + </p> + <p> + "Might God grant it!" said Alice. "Yet how shall I face your mother? And + will she be able to protect me against these powerful men—against my + uncle Christian? Alas, that I must call him my worst enemy!" + </p> + <p> + "She has the ascendancy which honour hath over infamy, and virtue over + vice," said Julian; "and to no human power but your father's will she + resign you, if you consent to choose her for your protectress. Come, then, + with me, Alice; and——" + </p> + <p> + Julian was interrupted by some one, who, laying an unceremonious hold of + his cloak, pulled it with so much force as compelled him to stop and lay + his hand on his sword. He turned at the same time, and, when he turned, + beheld Fenella. The cheek of the mute glowed like fire; her eyes sparkled, + and her lips were forcibly drawn together, as if she had difficulty to + repress those wild screams which usually attended her agonies of passion, + and which, uttered in the open street, must instantly have collected a + crowd. As it was, her appearance was so singular, and her emotion so + evident, that men gazed as they came on, and looked back after they had + passed, at the singular vivacity of her gestures; while, holding Peveril's + cloak with one hand, she made with the other the most eager and imperious + signs that he should leave Alice Bridgenorth and follow her. She touched + the plume in her bonnet to remind him of the Earl—pointed to her + heart, to imitate the Countess—raised her closed hand, as if to + command him in their name—and next moment folded both, as if to + supplicate him in her own; while pointing to Alice with an expression at + once of angry and scornful derision, she waved her hand repeatedly and + disdainfully, to intimate that Peveril ought to cast her off, as something + undeserving his protection. + </p> + <p> + Frightened, she knew not why, at these wild gestures, Alice clung closer + to Julian's arm than she had at first dared to do; and this mark of + confidence in his protection seemed to increase the passion of Fenella. + </p> + <p> + Julian was dreadfully embarrassed; his situation was sufficiently + precarious, even before Fenella's ungovernable passions threatened to ruin + the only plan which he had been able to suggest. What she wanted with him—how + far the fate of the Earl and Countess might depend on his following her, + he could not even conjecture; but be the call how peremptory soever, he + resolved not to comply with it until he had seen Alice placed in safety. + In the meantime, he determined not to lose sight of Fenella; and + disregarding her repeated, disdainful, and impetuous rejection of the hand + which he offered her, he at length seemed so far to have soothed her, that + she seized upon his right arm, and, as if despairing of his following <i>her</i> + path, appeared reconciled to attend him on that which he himself should + choose. + </p> + <p> + Thus, with a youthful female clinging to each arm, and both remarkably + calculated to attract the public eye, though from very different reasons, + Julian resolved to make the shortest road to the water-side, and there to + take boat for Blackfriars, as the nearest point of landing to Newgate, + where he concluded that Lance had already announced his arrival in London + to Sir Geoffrey, then inhabiting that dismal region, and to his lady, who, + so far as the jailer's rigour permitted, shared and softened his + imprisonment. + </p> + <p> + Julian's embarrassment in passing Charing Cross and Northumberland House + was so great as to excite the attention of the passengers; for he had to + compose his steps so as to moderate the unequal and rapid pace of Fenella + to the timid and faint progress of his left-hand companion; and while it + would have been needless to address himself to the former, who could not + comprehend him, he dared not speak himself to Alice, for fear of awakening + into frenzy the jealousy, or at least the impatience of Fenella. + </p> + <p> + Many passengers looked at them with wonder, and some with smiles; but + Julian remarked that there were two who never lost sight of them, and to + whom his situation, and the demeanour of his companions, seemed to afford + matter of undisguised merriment. These were young men, such as may be seen + in the same precincts in the present day, allowing for the difference in + the fashion of their apparel. They abounded in periwig, and fluttered with + many hundred yards of ribbon, disposed in bow-knots upon their sleeves, + their breeches, and their waistcoats, in the very extremity of the + existing mode. A quantity of lace and embroidery made their habits rather + fine than tasteful. In a word, they were dressed in that caricature of the + fashion, which sometimes denotes a harebrained man of quality who has a + mind to be distinguished as a fop of the first order, but is much more + frequently in the disguise of those who desire to be esteemed men of rank + on account of their dress, having no other pretension to the distinction. + </p> + <p> + These two gallants passed Peveril more than once, linked arm in arm, then + sauntered, so as to oblige him to pass them in turn, laughing and + whispering during these manoeuvres—staring broadly at Peveril and + his female companions—and affording them, as they came into contact, + none of those facilities of giving place which are required on such + occasions by the ordinary rules of the pavé. + </p> + <p> + Peveril did not immediately observe their impertinence; but when it was + too gross to escape his notice, his gall began to arise; and, in addition + to all the other embarrassments of his situation, he had to combat the + longing desire which he felt to cudgel handsomely the two coxcombs who + seemed thus determined on insulting him. Patience and sufferance were + indeed strongly imposed on him by circumstances; but at length it became + scarcely possible to observe their dictates any longer. + </p> + <p> + When, for the third time, Julian found himself obliged, with his + companions, to pass this troublesome brace of fops, they kept walking + close behind him, speaking so loud as to be heard, and in a tone of + perfect indifference whether he listened to them or not. + </p> + <p> + "This is bumpkin's best luck," said the taller of the two (who was indeed + a man of remarkable size, alluding to the plainness of Peveril's dress, + which was scarce fit for the streets of London)—"Two such fine + wenches, and under guard of a grey frock and an oaken riding-rod!" + </p> + <p> + "Nay, Puritan's luck rather, and more than enough of it," said his + companion. "You may read Puritan in his pace and in his patience." + </p> + <p> + "Right as a pint bumper, Tom," said his friend—"Isschar is an ass + that stoopeth between two burdens." + </p> + <p> + "I have a mind to ease long-eared Laurence of one of his encumbrances," + said the shorter fellow. "That black-eyed sparkler looks as if she had a + mind to run away from him." + </p> + <p> + "Ay," answered the taller, "and the blue-eyed trembler looks as if she + would fall behind into my loving arms." + </p> + <p> + At these words, Alice, holding still closer by Peveril's arm than + formerly, mended her pace almost to running, in order to escape from men + whose language was so alarming; and Fenella walked hastily forward in the + same manner, having perhaps caught, from the men's gestures and demeanour, + that apprehension which Alice had taken from their language. + </p> + <p> + Fearful of the consequences of a fray in the streets, which must + necessarily separate him from these unprotected females, Peveril + endeavoured to compound betwixt the prudence necessary for their + protection and his own rising resentment; and as this troublesome pair of + attendants endeavoured again to pass them close to Hungerford Stairs, he + said to them with constrained calmness, "Gentlemen, I owe you something + for the attention you have bestowed on the affairs of a stranger. If you + have any pretension to the name I have given you, you will tell me where + you are to be found." + </p> + <p> + "And with what purpose," said the taller of the two sneeringly, "does your + most rustic gravity, or your most grave rusticity, require of us such + information?" + </p> + <p> + So saying, they both faced about, in such a manner as to make it + impossible for Julian to advance any farther. + </p> + <p> + "Make for the stairs, Alice," he said; "I will be with you in an instant." + Then freeing himself with difficulty from the grasp of his companions, he + cast his cloak hastily round his left arm, and said, sternly, to his + opponents, "Will you give me your names, sirs; or will you be pleased to + make way?" + </p> + <p> + "Not till we know for whom we are to give place," said one of them. + </p> + <p> + "For one who will else teach you what you want—good manners," said + Peveril, and advanced as if to push between them. + </p> + <p> + They separated, but one of them stretched forth his foot before Peveril, + as if he meant to trip him. The blood of his ancestors was already boiling + within him; he struck the man on the face with the oaken rod which he had + just sneered at, and throwing it from him, instantly unsheathed his sword. + Both the others drew, and pushed at once; but he caught the point of the + one rapier in his cloak, and parried the other thrust with his own weapon. + He must have been less lucky in the second close, but a cry arose among + the watermen, of "Shame, shame! two upon one!" + </p> + <p> + "They are men of the Duke of Buckingham's," said one fellow—"there's + no safe meddling with them." + </p> + <p> + "They may be the devil's men, if they will," said an ancient Triton, + flourishing his stretcher; "but I say fair play, and old England for ever; + and, I say, knock the gold-laced puppies down, unless they will fight turn + about with grey jerkin, like honest fellows. One down—t'other come + on." + </p> + <p> + The lower orders of London have in all times been remarkable for the + delight which they have taken in club-law, or fist-law; and for the equity + and impartiality with which they see it administered. The noble science of + defence was then so generally known, that a bout at single rapier excited + at that time as much interest and as little wonder as a boxing-match in + our own days. The bystanders experienced in such affrays, presently formed + a ring, within which Peveril and the taller and more forward of his + antagonists were soon engaged in close combat with their swords, whilst + the other, overawed by the spectators, was prevented from interfering. + </p> + <p> + "Well done the tall fellow!"—"Well thrust, long-legs!'—"Huzza + for two ells and a quarter!" were the sounds with which the fray was at + first cheered; for Peveril's opponent not only showed great activity and + skill in fence, but had also a decided advantage, from the anxiety with + which Julian looked out for Alice Bridgenorth; the care for whose safety + diverted him in the beginning of the onset from that which he ought to + have exclusively bestowed on the defence of his own life. A slight + flesh-wound in the side at once punished, and warned him of, his + inadvertence; when, turning his whole thoughts on the business in which he + was engaged, and animated with anger against his impertinent intruder, the + rencontre speedily began to assume another face, amidst cries of "Well + done, grey jerkin!"—"Try the metal of his gold doublet!"—"Finely + thrust!"—"Curiously parried!"—"There went another eyelet-hole + to his broidered jerkin!"—"Fairly pinked, by G—d!" In + applause, accompanying a successful and conclusive lunge, by which Peveril + ran his gigantic antagonist through the body. He looked at his prostrate + foe for a moment; then, recovering himself, called loudly to know what had + become of the lady. + </p> + <p> + "Never mind the lady, if you be wise," said one of the watermen; "the + constable will be here in an instant. I'll give your honour a cast across + the water in a moment. It may be as much as your neck's worth. Shall only + charge a Jacobus." + </p> + <p> + "You be d—d!" said one of his rivals in profession, "as your father + was before you; for a Jacobus, I'll set the gentleman into Alsatia, where + neither bailiff nor constable dare trespass." + </p> + <p> + "The lady, you scoundrels, the lady!" exclaimed Peveril—-"Where is + the lady?" + </p> + <p> + "I'll carry your honour where you shall have enough of ladies, if that be + your want," said the old Triton; and as he spoke, the clamour amongst the + watermen was renewed, each hoping to cut his own profit out of the + emergency of Julian's situation. + </p> + <p> + "A sculler will be least suspected, your honour," said one fellow. + </p> + <p> + "A pair of oars will carry you through the water like a wild-duck," said + another. + </p> + <p> + "But you have got never a tilt, brother," said a third. "Now I can put the + gentleman as snug as if he were under hatches." + </p> + <p> + In the midst of the oaths and clamour attending this aquatic controversy + for his custom, Peveril at length made them understand that he would + bestow a Jacobus, not on him whose boat was first oars, but on whomsoever + should inform him of the fate of the lady. + </p> + <p> + "Of which lady?" said a sharp fellow: "for, to my thought, there was a + pair of them." + </p> + <p> + "Of both, of both," answered Peveril; "but first, of the fair-haired + lady?" + </p> + <p> + "Ay, ay, that was she that shrieked so when gold-jacket's companion handed + her into No. 20." + </p> + <p> + "Who—what—who dared to hand her?" exclaimed Peveril. + </p> + <p> + "Nay, master, you have heard enough of my tale without a fee," said the + waterman. + </p> + <p> + "Sordid rascal!" said Peveril, giving him a gold piece, "speak out, or + I'll run my sword through you!" + </p> + <p> + "For the matter of that, master," answered the fellow, "not while I can + handle this trunnion—but a bargain's a bargain; and so I'll tell + you, for your gold piece, that the comrade of the fellow forced one of + your wenches, her with the fair hair, will she, nill she, into Tickling + Tom's wherry; and they are far enough up Thames by this time, with wind + and tide." + </p> + <p> + "Sacred Heaven, and I stand here!" exclaimed Julian. + </p> + <p> + "Why, that is because your honour will not take a boat." + </p> + <p> + "You are right, my friend—a boat—a boat instantly!" + </p> + <p> + "Follow me, then, squire.—Here, Tom, bear a hand—the gentleman + is our fare." + </p> + <p> + A volley of water language was exchanged betwixt the successful candidate + for Peveril's custom and his disappointed brethren, which concluded by the + ancient Triton's bellowing out, in a tone above them all, "that the + gentleman was in a fair way to make a voyage to the isle of gulls, for + that sly Jack was only bantering him—No. 20 had rowed for York + Buildings." + </p> + <p> + "To the isle of gallows," cried another; "for here comes one who will mar + his trip up Thames, and carry him down to Execution Dock." + </p> + <p> + In fact, as he spoke the word, a constable, with three or four of his + assistants, armed with the old-fashioned brown bills, which were still + used for arming those guardians of the peace, cut off our hero's farther + progress to the water's edge, by arresting him in the King's name. To + attempt resistance would have been madness, as he was surrounded on all + sides; so Peveril was disarmed, and carried before the nearest Justice of + the Peace, for examination and committal. + </p> + <p> + The legal sage before whom Julian was taken was a man very honest in his + intentions, very bounded in his talents, and rather timid in his + disposition. Before the general alarm given to England, and to the city of + London in particular, by the notable discovery of the Popish Plot, Master + Maulstatute had taken serene and undisturbed pride and pleasure in the + discharge of his duties as a Justice of the Peace, with the exercise of + all its honorary privileges and awful authority. But the murder of Sir + Edmondsbury Godfrey had made a strong, nay, an indelible impression on his + mind; and he walked the Courts of Themis with fear and trembling after + that memorable and melancholy event. + </p> + <p> + Having a high idea of his official importance, and rather an exalted + notion of his personal consequence, his honour saw nothing from that time + but cords and daggers before his eyes, and never stepped out of his own + house, which he fortified, and in some measure garrisoned, with + half-a-dozen tall watchmen and constables, without seeing himself watched + by a Papist in disguise, with a drawn sword under his cloak. It was even + whispered, that, in the agonies of his fears, the worshipful Master + Maulstatute mistook the kitchen-wench with a tinderbox, for a Jesuit with + a pistol; but if any one dared to laugh at such an error, he would have + done well to conceal his mirth, lest he fell under the heavy inculpation + of being a banterer and stifler of the Plot—a crime almost as deep + as that of being himself a plotter. In fact, the fears of the honest + Justice, however ridiculously exorbitant, were kept so much in countenance + by the outcry of the day, and the general nervous fever, which afflicted + every good Protestant, that Master Maulstatute was accounted the bolder + man and the better magistrate, while, under the terror of the air-drawn + dagger which fancy placed continually before his eyes, he continued to + dole forth Justice in the recesses of his private chamber, nay, + occasionally to attend Quarter-Sessions, when the hall was guarded by a + sufficient body of the militia. Such was the wight, at whose door, well + chained and doubly bolted, the constable who had Julian in custody now + gave his important and well-known knock. + </p> + <p> + Notwithstanding this official signal, the party was not admitted until the + clerk, who acted the part of high-warder, had reconnoitred them through a + grated wicket; for who could say whether the Papists might not have made + themselves master of Master Constable's sign, and have prepared a pseudo + watch to burst in and murder the Justice, under pretence of bringing in a + criminal before him?—Less hopeful projects had figured in the + Narrative of the Popish Plot. + </p> + <p> + All being found right, the key was turned, the bolts were drawn, and the + chain unhooked, so as to permit entrance to the constable, the prisoner, + and the assistants; and the door was then a suddenly shut against the + witnesses, who, as less trustworthy persons, were requested (through the + wicket) to remain in the yard, until they should be called in their + respective turns. + </p> + <p> + Had Julian been inclined for mirth, as was far from being the case, he + must have smiled at the incongruity of the clerk's apparel, who had belted + over his black buckram suit a buff baldric, sustaining a broadsword, and a + pair of huge horse-pistols; and, instead of the low flat hat, which, + coming in place of the city cap, completed the dress of a scrivener, had + placed on his greasy locks a rusted steel-cap, which had seen + Marston-Moor; across which projected his well-used quill, in the guise of + a plume—the shape of the morion not admitting of its being stuck, as + usual, behind his ear. + </p> + <p> + This whimsical figure conducted the constable, his assistants, and the + prisoner, into the low hall, where his principal dealt forth justice; who + presented an appearance still more singular than that of his dependant. + </p> + <p> + Sundry good Protestants, who thought so highly of themselves as to suppose + they were worthy to be distinguished as objects of Catholic cruelty, had + taken to defensive arms on the occasion. But it was quickly found that a + breast-plate and back-plate of proof, fastened together with iron clasps, + was no convenient enclosure for a man who meant to eat venison and + custard; and that a buff-coat or shirt of mail was scarcely more + accommodating to the exertions necessary on such active occasions. + Besides, there were other objections, as the alarming and menacing aspects + which such warlike habiliments gave to the Exchange, and other places, + where merchants most do congregate; and excoriations were bitterly + complained of by many, who, not belonging to the artillery company, or + trained bands, had no experience in bearing defensive armour. + </p> + <p> + To obviate these objections, and, at the same time, to secure the persons + of all true Protestant citizens against open force or privy assassinations + on the part of the Papists, some ingenious artist, belonging, we may + presume, to the worshipful Mercers' Company, had contrived a species of + armour, of which neither the horse-armory in the Tower, nor Gwynnap's + Gothic Hall, no, nor Dr. Meyrick's invaluable collection of ancient arms, + has preserved any specimen. It was called silk-armour, being composed of a + doublet and breeches of quilted silk, so closely stitched, and of such + thickness, as to be proof against either bullet or steel; while a thick + bonnet of the same materials, with ear-flaps attached to it, and on the + whole, much resembling a nightcap, completed the equipment and ascertained + the security of the wearer from the head to the knee. + </p> + <p> + Master Maulstatute, among other worthy citizens, had adopted this singular + panoply, which had the advantage of being soft, and warm, and flexible, as + well as safe. And he now sat in his judicial elbow-chair—a short, + rotund figure, hung round, as it were, with cushions, for such was the + appearance of the quilted garments; and with a nose protruded from under + the silken casque, the size of which, together with the unwieldiness of + the whole figure, gave his worship no indifferent resemblance to the sign + of the Hog in Armour, which was considerably improved by the defensive + garment being of dusty orange colour, not altogether unlike the hue of + those half-wild swine which are to be found in the forest of Hampshire. + </p> + <p> + Secure in these invulnerable envelopments, his worship had rested content, + although severed from his own death-doing weapons, of rapier, poniard, and + pistols, which were placed nevertheless, at no great distance from his + chair. One offensive implement, indeed, he thought it prudent to keep on + the table beside his huge Coke upon Lyttleton. This was a sort of pocket + flail, consisting of a piece of strong ash, about eighteen inches long, to + which was attached a swinging club of <i>lignum-vitæ</i>, nearly twice as + long as the handle, but jointed so as to be easily folded up. This + instrument, which bore at that time the singular name of the Protestant + flail, might be concealed under the coat, until circumstances demanded its + public appearance. A better precaution against surprise than his arms, + whether offensive or defensive, was a strong iron grating, which, crossing + the room in front of the justice's table, and communicating by a grated + door, which was usually kept locked, effectually separated the accused + party from his judge. + </p> + <p> + Justice Maulstatute, such as we have described him, chose to hear the + accusation of the witnesses before calling on Peveril for his defence. The + detail of the affray was briefly given by the bystanders, and seemed + deeply to touch the spirit of the examinator. He shook his silken casque + emphatically, when he understood that, after some language betwixt the + parties, which the witnesses did not quite understand, the young man in + custody struck the first blow, and drew his sword before the wounded party + had unsheathed his weapon. Again he shook his crested head yet more + solemnly, when the result of the conflict was known; and yet again, when + one of the witnesses declared, that, to the best of his knowledge, the + sufferer in the fray was a gentleman belonging to the household of his + Grace the Duke of Buckingham. + </p> + <p> + "A worthy peer," quoth the armed magistrate—"a true Protestant, and + a friend to his country. Mercy on us, to what a height of audacity hath + this age arisen! We see well, and could, were we as blind as a mole, out + of what quiver this shaft hath been drawn." + </p> + <p> + He then put on his spectacles, and having desired Julian to be brought + forward, he glared upon him awfully with those glazen eyes, from under the + shade of his quilted turban. + </p> + <p> + "So young," he said, "and so hardened—lack-a-day!—and a + Papist, I'll warrant." + </p> + <p> + Peveril had time enough to recollect the necessity of his being at large, + if he could possibly obtain his freedom, and interposed here a civil + contradiction of his worship's gracious supposition. "He was no Catholic," + he said, "but an unworthy member of the Church of England." + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps but a lukewarm Protestant, notwithstanding," said the sage + Justice; "there are those amongst us who ride tantivy to Rome, and have + already made out half the journey—ahem!" + </p> + <p> + Peveril disowned his being any such. + </p> + <p> + "And who art thou, then?" said the Justice; "for, friend, to tell you + plainly, I like not your visage—ahem!" + </p> + <p> + These short and emphatic coughs were accompanied each by a succinct nod, + intimating the perfect conviction of the speaker that he had made the + best, the wisest, and the most acute observation, of which the premises + admitted. + </p> + <p> + Julian, irritated by the whole circumstances of his detention, answered + the Justice's interrogation in rather a lofty tone. "My name is Julian + Peveril!" + </p> + <p> + "Now, Heaven be around us!" said the terrified Justice—"the son of + that black-hearted Papist and traitor, Sir Geoffrey Peveril, now in hands, + and on the verge of trial!" + </p> + <p> + "How, sir!" exclaimed Julian, forgetting his situation, and, stepping + forward to the grating, with a violence which made the bars clatter, he so + startled the appalled Justice, that, snatching his Protestant flail, + Master Maulstatute aimed a blow at his prisoner, to repel what he + apprehended was a premeditated attack. But whether it was owing to the + Justice's hurry of mind, or inexperience in managing the weapon, he not + only missed his aim, but brought the swinging part of the machine round + his own skull, with such a severe counter-buff, as completely to try the + efficacy of his cushioned helmet, and, in spite of its defence, to convey + a stunning sensation, which he rather hastily imputed to the consequence + of a blow received from Peveril. + </p> + <p> + His assistants did not directly confirm the opinion which the Justice had + so unwarrantably adopted; but all with one voice agreed that, but for + their own active and instantaneous interference, there was no knowing what + mischief might have been done by a person so dangerous as the prisoner. + The general opinion that he meant to proceed in the matter of his own + rescue, <i>par voie du fait</i>, was indeed so deeply impressed on all + present, that Julian saw it would be in vain to offer any defence, + especially being but too conscious that the alarming and probably the + fatal consequences of his rencontre with the bully, rendered his + commitment inevitable. He contented himself with asking into what prison + he was to be thrown; and when the formidable word Newgate was returned as + full answer, he had at least the satisfaction to reflect, that, stern and + dangerous as was the shelter of that roof, he should at least enjoy it in + company with his father; and that, by some means or other, they might + perhaps obtain the satisfaction of a melancholy meeting, under the + circumstances of mutual calamity, which seemed impending over their house. + </p> + <p> + Assuming the virtue of more patience than he actually possessed, Julian + gave the magistrate (to whom all the mildness of his demeanour could not, + however, reconcile him), the direction to the house where he lodged, + together with a request that his servant, Lance Outram, might be permitted + to send him his money and wearing apparel; adding, that all which might be + in his possession, either of arms or writings,—the former amounting + to a pair of travelling pistols, and the last to a few memoranda of little + consequence, he willingly consented to place at the disposal of the + magistrate. It was in that moment that he entertained, with sincere + satisfaction, the comforting reflection, that the important papers of Lady + Derby were already in the possession of the sovereign. + </p> + <p> + The Justice promised attention to his requests; but reminded him, with + great dignity, that his present complacent and submissive behaviour ought, + for his own sake, to have been adopted from the beginning, instead of + disturbing the presence of magistracy with such atrocious marks of the + malignant, rebellious, and murderous spirit of Popery, as he had at first + exhibited. "Yet," he said, "as he was a goodly young man, and of + honourable quality, he would not suffer him to be dragged through the + streets as a felon, but had ordered a coach for his accommodation." + </p> + <p> + His honour, Master Maulstatute, uttered the word "coach" with the + importance of one who, as Dr. Johnson saith of later date, is conscious of + the dignity of putting horses to his chariot. The worshipful Master + Maulstatute did not, however on this occasion, do Julian the honour of + yoking to his huge family caroche the two "frampal jades" (to use the term + of the period), which were wont to drag that ark to the meeting house of + pure and precious Master Howlaglass, on a Thursday's evening for lecture, + and on a Sunday for a four-hours' sermon. He had recourse to a leathern + convenience, then more rare, but just introduced, with every prospect of + the great facility which has since been afforded by hackney coaches, to + all manner of communication, honest and dishonest, legal and illegal. Our + friend Julian, hitherto much more accustomed to the saddle than to any + other conveyance, soon found himself in a hackney carriage, with the + constable and two assistants for his companions, armed up to the teeth—the + port of destination being, as they had already intimated, the ancient + fortress of Newgate. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0033" id="link2HCH0033"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXIII + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + 'Tis the black ban-dog of our jail—Pray look on him, + But at a wary distance—rouse him not— + He bays not till he worries. + —THE BLACK DOG OF NEWGATE. +</pre> + <p> + The coach stopped before those tremendous gates, which resemble those of + Tartarus, save only that they rather more frequently permit safe and + honourable egress; although at the price of the same anxiety and labour + with which Hercules, and one or two of the demi-gods, extricated + themselves from the Hell of the ancient mythology, and sometimes, it is + said, by the assistance of the golden boughs. + </p> + <p> + Julian stepped out of the vehicle, carefully supported on either side by + his companions, and also by one or two turnkeys, whom the first summons of + the deep bell at the gate had called to their assistance. That attention, + it may be guessed, was not bestowed lest he should make a false step, so + much as for fear of his attempting an escape, of which he had no + intentions. A few prentices and straggling boys of the neighbouring + market, which derived considerable advantage from increase of custom, in + consequence of the numerous committals on account of the Popish Plot, and + who therefore were zealous of Protestants, saluted him on his descent with + jubilee shouts of "Whoop, Papist! whoop, Papist! D——n to the + Pope, and all his adherents!" + </p> + <p> + Under such auspices, Peveril was ushered in beneath that gloomy gateway, + where so many bid adieu on their entrance at once to honour and to life. + The dark and dismal arch under which he soon found himself opened upon a + large courtyard, where a number of debtors were employed in playing at + handball, pitch-and-toss, hustle-cap, and other games, for which + relaxations the rigour of their creditors afforded them full leisure, + while it debarred them the means of pursuing the honest labour by which + they might have redeemed their affairs, and maintained their starving and + beggared families. + </p> + <p> + But with this careless and desperate group Julian was not to be numbered, + being led, or rather forced, by his conductors, into a low arched door, + which, carefully secured by bolts and bars, opened for his reception on + one side of the archway, and closed, with all its fastenings, the moment + after his hasty entrance. He was then conducted along two or three gloomy + passages, which, where they intersected each other, were guarded by as + many strong wickets, one of iron gates, and the others of stout oak, + clinched with plates, and studded with nails of the same metal. He was not + allowed to pause until he found himself hurried into a little round + vaulted room, which several of these passages opened into, and which + seemed, with respect to the labyrinth through part of which he had passed, + to resemble the central point of a spider's web, in which the main lines + of that reptile's curious maze are always found to terminate. + </p> + <p> + The resemblance did not end here; for in this small vaulted apartment, the + walls of which were hung round with musketoons, pistols, cutlasses, and + other weapons, as well as with many sets of fetters and irons of different + construction, all disposed in great order, and ready for employment, a + person sat, who might not unaptly be compared to a huge bloated and + bottled spider, placed there to secure the prey which had fallen into his + toils. + </p> + <p> + This official had originally been a very strong and square-built man, of + large size, but was now so overgrown, from overfeeding, perhaps, and want + of exercise, as to bear the same resemblance to his former self which a + stall-fed ox still retains to a wild bull. The look of no man is so + inauspicious as a fat man, upon whose features ill-nature has marked an + habitual stamp. He seems to have reversed the old proverb of "laugh and be + fat," and to have thriven under the influence of the worst affections of + the mind. Passionate we can allow a jolly mortal to be; but it seems + unnatural to his goodly case to be sulky and brutal. Now this man's + features, surly and tallow-coloured; his limbs, swelled and + disproportioned; his huge paunch and unwieldy carcass, suggested the idea, + that, having once found his way into this central recess, he had there + fattened, like the weasel in the fable, and fed largely and foully, until + he had become incapable of retreating through any of the narrow paths that + terminated at his cell; and was thus compelled to remain, like a toad + under the cold stone, fattening amid the squalid airs of the dungeons by + which he was surrounded, which would have proved pestiferous to any other + than such a congenial inhabitant. Huge iron-clasped books lay before this + ominous specimen of pinguitude—the records of the realm of misery, + in which office he officiated as prime minister; and had Peveril come + thither as an unconcerned visitor, his heart would have sunk within him at + considering the mass of human wretchedness which must needs be registered + in these fatal volumes. But his own distresses sat too heavy on his mind + to permit any general reflections of this nature. + </p> + <p> + The constable and this bulky official whispered together, after the former + had delivered to the latter the warrant of Julian's commitment. The word + <i>whispered</i> is not quite accurate, for their communication was + carried on less by words than by looks and expressive signs; by which, in + all such situations, men learn to supply the use of language, and to add + mystery to what is in itself sufficiently terrible to the captive. The + only words which could be heard were those of the Warden, or, as he was + called then, the Captain of the Jail, "Another bird to the cage——?" + </p> + <p> + "Who will whistle 'Pretty Pope of Rome,' with any starling in your + Knight's ward," answered the constable, with a facetious air, checked, + however, by the due respect to the supreme presence in which he stood. + </p> + <p> + The Grim Feature relaxed into something like a smile as he heard the + officer's observation; but instantly composing himself into the stern + solemnity which for an instant had been disturbed, he looked fiercely at + his new guest, and pronounced with an awful and emphatic, yet rather an + under-voice, the single and impressive word, "<i>Garnish!</i>" + </p> + <p> + Julian Peveril replied with assumed composure; for he had heard of the + customs of such places, and was resolved to comply with them, so as if + possible to obtain the favour of seeing his father, which he shrewdly + guessed must depend on his gratifying the avarice of the keeper. "I am + quite ready," he said, "to accede to the customs of the place in which I + unhappily find myself. You have but to name your demands, and I will + satisfy them." + </p> + <p> + So saying, he drew out his purse, thinking himself at the same time + fortunate that he had retained about him a considerable sum of gold. The + Captain remarked its width, depth, its extension, and depression, with an + involuntary smile, which had scarce contorted his hanging under-lip, and + the wiry and greasy moustache which thatched the upper, when it was + checked by the recollection that there were regulations which set bounds + to his rapacity, and prevented him from pouncing on his prey like a kite, + and swooping it all off at once. + </p> + <p> + This chilling reflection produced the following sullen reply to Peveril:—"There + were sundry rates. Gentlemen must choose for themselves. He asked nothing + but his fees. But civility," he muttered, "must be paid for." + </p> + <p> + "And shall, if I can have it for payment," said Peveril; "but the price, + my good sir, the price?" + </p> + <p> + He spoke with some degree of scorn, which he was the less anxious to + repress, that he saw, even in this jail, his purse gave him an indirect + but powerful influence over his jailer. + </p> + <p> + The Captain seemed to feel the same; for, as he spoke, he plucked from his + head, almost involuntarily, a sort of scalded fur-cap, which served it for + covering. But his fingers revolting from so unusual an act of + complaisance, began to indemnify themselves by scratching his grizzly + shock-head, as he muttered, in a tone resembling the softened growling of + a mastiff when he has ceased to bay the intruder who shows no fear of him,—"There + are different rates. There is the Little Ease, for common fees of the + crown—rather dark, and the common sewer runs below it; and some + gentlemen object to the company, who are chiefly padders and michers. Then + the Master's side—the garnish came to one piece—and none lay + stowed there but who were in for murder at the least." + </p> + <p> + "Name your highest price, sir, and take it," was Julian's concise reply. + </p> + <p> + "Three pieces for the Knight's ward," answered the governor of this + terrestrial Tartarus. + </p> + <p> + "Take five, and place me with Sir Geoffrey," was again Julian's answer, + throwing down the money upon the desk before him. + </p> + <p> + "Sir Geoffrey?—Hum!—ay, Sir Geoffrey," said the jailer, as if + meditating what he ought to do. "Well, many a man has paid money to see + Sir Geoffrey—Scarce so much as you have, though. But then you are + like to see the last of him.—Ha, ha ha!" + </p> + <p> + These broken muttered exclamations, which terminated somewhat like the + joyous growl of a tiger over his meal, Julian could not comprehend; and + only replied to by repeating his request to be placed in the same cell + with Sir Geoffrey. + </p> + <p> + "Ay, master," said the jailer, "never fear; I'll keep word with you, as + you seem to know something of what belongs to your station and mine. And + hark ye, Jem Clink will fetch you the darbies." + </p> + <p> + "Derby!" interrupted Julian,—"Has the Earl or Countess——" + </p> + <p> + "Earl or Countess!—Ha, ha, ha!" again laughed, or rather growled, + the warden. "What is your head running on? You are a high fellow belike! + but all is one here. The darbies are the fetlocks—the fast-keepers, + my boy—the bail for good behaviour, my darling; and if you are not + the more conforming, I can add you a steel nightcap, and a curious + bosom-friend, to keep you warm of a winter night. But don't be + disheartened; you have behaved genteel; and you shall not be put upon. And + as for this here matter, ten to one it will turn out chance-medley, or + manslaughter, at the worst on it; and then it is but a singed thumb + instead of a twisted neck—always if there be no Papistry about it, + for then I warrant nothing.—Take the gentleman's worship away, + Clink." + </p> + <p> + A turnkey, who was one of the party that had ushered Peveril into the + presence of this Cerberus, now conveyed him out in silence; and, under his + guidance, the prisoner was carried through a second labyrinth of passages + with cells opening on each side, to that which was destined for his + reception. + </p> + <p> + On the road through this sad region, the turnkey more than once + ejaculated, "Why, the gentleman must be stark-mad! Could have had the best + crown cell to himself for less than half the garnish, and must pay double + to pig in with Sir Geoffrey! Ha, ha!—Is Sir Geoffrey akin to you, if + any one may make free to ask?" + </p> + <p> + "I am his son," answered Peveril sternly, in hopes to impose some curb on + the fellow's impertinence; but the man only laughed louder than before. + </p> + <p> + "His son!—Why, that's best of all—Why, you are a strapping + youth—five feet ten, if you be an inch—and Sir Geoffrey's son!—Ha, + ha, ha!" + </p> + <p> + "Truce with your impertinence," said Julian. "My situation gives you no + title to insult me!" + </p> + <p> + "No more I do," said the turnkey, smothering his mirth at the + recollection, perhaps, that the prisoner's purse was not exhausted. "I + only laughed because you said you were Sir Geoffrey's son. But no matter—'tis + a wise child that knows his own father. And here is Sir Geoffrey's cell; + so you and he may settle the fatherhood between you." + </p> + <p> + So saying, he ushered his prisoner into a cell, or rather a strong room of + the better order, in which there were four chairs, a truckle-bed, and one + or two other articles of furniture. + </p> + <p> + Julian looked eagerly around for his father; but to his surprise the room + appeared totally empty. He turned with anger on the turnkey, and charged + him with misleading him; but the fellow answered, "No, no, master; I have + kept faith with you. Your father, if you call him so, is only tappiced in + some corner. A small hole will hide him; but I'll rouse him out presently + for you.—Here, hoicks!—Turn out, Sir Geoffrey!—Here is—Ha, + ha, ha!—your son—or your wife's son—for I think you have + but little share in him—come to wait on you." + </p> + <p> + Peveril knew not how to resent the man's insolence; and indeed his + anxiety, and apprehension of some strange mistake, mingled with, and in + some degree neutralised his anger. He looked again and again, around and + around the room; until at length he became aware of something rolled up in + a dark corner, which rather resembled a small bundle of crimson cloth than + any living creature. At the vociferation of the turnkey, however, the + object seemed to acquire life and motion, uncoiled itself in some degree, + and, after an effort or two, gained an erect posture; still covered from + top to toe with the crimson drapery in which it was at first wrapped. + Julian, at the first glance, imagined from the size that he saw a child of + five years old; but a shrill and peculiar tone of voice soon assured him + of his mistake. + </p> + <p> + "Warder," said this unearthly sound, "what is the meaning of this + disturbance? Have you more insults to heap on the head of one who hath + ever been the butt of fortune's malice? But I have a soul that can wrestle + with all my misfortunes; it is as large as any of your bodies." + </p> + <p> + "Nay, Sir Geoffrey, if this be the way you welcome your own son!" said the + turnkey; "but you quality folks know your own ways best." + </p> + <p> + "My son!" exclaimed the little figure. "Audacious——" + </p> + <p> + "Here is some strange mistake," said Peveril, in the same breath. "I + sought Sir Geoffrey——" + </p> + <p> + "And you have him before you, young man," said the pigmy tenant of the + cell, with an air of dignity; at the same time casting on the floor his + crimson cloak, and standing before them in his full dignity of three feet + six inches of height. "I who was the favoured servant of three successive + Sovereigns of the Crown of England, am now the tenant of this dungeon, and + the sport of its brutal keepers. I am Sir Geoffrey Hudson." + </p> + <p> + Julian, though he had never before seen this important personage, had no + difficulty in recognising, from description, the celebrated dwarf of + Henrietta Maria, who had survived the dangers of civil war and private + quarrel—the murder of his royal master, Charles I., and the exile of + his widow—to fall upon evil tongues and evil days, amidst the + unsparing accusations connected with the Popish Plot. He bowed to the + unhappy old man, and hastened to explain to him, and to the turnkey, that + it was Sir Geoffrey Peveril, of Martindale Castle in Derbyshire whose + prison he desired to share. + </p> + <p> + "You should have said that before you parted with the gold-dust, my + master," answered the turnkey; "for t'other Sir Geoffrey, that is the big, + tall, grey-haired man, was sent to the Tower last night; and the Captain + will think he has kept his word well enow with you, by lodging you with + this here Sir Geoffrey Hudson, who is the better show of the two." + </p> + <p> + "I pray you go to your master," said Peveril; "explain the mistake; and + say to him I beg to be sent to the Tower." + </p> + <p> + "The Tower!—Ha, ha, ha!" exclaimed the fellow. "The Tower is for + lords and knights, and not for squires of low degree—for high + treason, and not for ruffing on the streets with rapier and dagger; and + there must go a secretary's warrant to send you there." + </p> + <p> + "At least, let me not be a burden on this gentleman," said Julian. "There + can be no use in quartering us together, since we are not even acquainted. + Go tell your master of the mistake." + </p> + <p> + "Why, so I should," said Clink, still grinning, "if I were not sure that + he knew it already. You paid to be sent to Sir Geoffrey, and he sent you + to Sir Geoffrey. You are so put down in the register, and he will blot it + for no man. Come, come, be comfortable, and you shall have light and easy + irons—that's all I can do for you." + </p> + <p> + Resistance and expostulation being out of the question, Peveril submitted + to have a light pair of fetters secured on his ankles, which allowed him, + nevertheless, the power of traversing the apartment. + </p> + <p> + During this operation, he reflected that the jailer, who had taken the + advantage of the equivoque betwixt the two Sir Geoffreys, must have acted + as his assistant had hinted, and cheated him from malice prepense, since + the warrant of committal described him as the son of Sir Geoffrey Peveril. + It was therefore in vain, as well as degrading, to make farther + application to such a man on the subject. Julian determined to submit to + his fate, as what could not be averted by any effort of his own. + </p> + <p> + Even the turnkey was moved in some degree by his youth, good mien, and the + patience with which, after the first effervescence of disappointment, the + new prisoner resigned himself to his situation. "You seem a brave young + gentleman," he said; "and shall at least have a good dinner, and as good a + pallet to sleep on, as is within the walls of Newgate.——And, + Master Sir Geoffrey, you ought to make much of him, since you do not like + tall fellows; for I can tell you that Master Peveril is in for pinking + long Jack Jenkins, that was the Master of Defence—as tall a man as + in London, always excepting the King's Porter, Master Evans, that carried + you about in his pocket, Sir Geoffrey, as all the world heard tell." + </p> + <p> + "Begone, fellow!" answered the dwarf. "Fellow, I scorn you!" + </p> + <p> + The turnkey sneered, withdrew, and locked the door behind him. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0034" id="link2HCH0034"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXIV + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Degenerate youth, and not of Tydeus' kind, + Whose little body lodged a mighty mind. + —ILIAD. +</pre> + <p> + Left quiet at least, if not alone, for the first time after the events of + this troubled and varied day, Julian threw himself on an old oaken seat, + beside the embers of a sea-coal fire, and began to muse on the miserable + situation of anxiety and danger in which he was placed; where, whether he + contemplated the interests of his love, his family affections, or his + friendships, all seemed such a prospect as that of a sailor who looks upon + breakers on every hand, from the deck of a vessel which no longer obeys + the helm. + </p> + <p> + As Peveril sat sunk in despondency, his companion in misfortune drew a + chair to the opposite side of the chimney-corner, and began to gaze at him + with a sort of solemn earnestness, which at length compelled him, though + almost in spite of himself, to pay some attention to the singular figure + who seemed so much engrossed with contemplating him. + </p> + <p> + Geoffrey Hudson (we drop occasionally the title of knighthood, which the + King had bestowed on him in a frolic, but which might introduce some + confusion into our history), although a dwarf of the least possible size, + had nothing positively ugly in his countenance, or actually distorted in + his limbs. His head, hands, and feet were indeed large, and + disproportioned to the height of his body, and his body itself much + thicker than was consistent with symmetry, but in a degree which was + rather ludicrous than disagreeable to look upon. His countenance, in + particular, had he been a little taller, would have been accounted, in + youth, handsome, and now, in age, striking and expressive; it was but the + uncommon disproportion betwixt the head and the trunk which made the + features seem whimsical and bizarre—an effect which was considerably + increased by the dwarf's moustaches, which it was his pleasure to wear so + large, that they almost twisted back amongst, and mingled with, his + grizzled hair. + </p> + <p> + The dress of this singular wight announced that he was not entirely free + from the unhappy taste which frequently induces those whom nature has + marked by personal deformity, to distinguish, and at the same time to + render themselves ridiculous, by the use of showy colours, and garments + fantastically and extraordinarily fashioned. But poor Geoffrey Hudson's + laces, embroideries, and the rest of his finery, were sorely worn and + tarnished by the time which he had spent in jail, under the vague and + malicious accusation that he was somehow or other an accomplice in this + all-involving, all-devouring whirlpool of a Popish conspiracy—an + impeachment which, if pronounced by a mouth the foulest and most + malicious, was at that time sufficiently predominant to sully the fairest + reputation. It will presently appear, that in the poor man's manner of + thinking, and tone of conversation, there was something analogous to his + absurd fashion of apparel; for, as in the latter, good stuff and valuable + decorations were rendered ludicrous by the fantastic fashion in which they + were made up; so, such glimmerings of good sense and honourable feeling as + the little man often evinced, were made ridiculous by a restless desire to + assume certain airs of importance, and a great jealousy of being despised, + on account of the peculiarity of his outward form. + </p> + <p> + After the fellow-prisoners had looked at each other for some time in + silence, the dwarf, conscious of his dignity as first owner of their joint + apartment, thought it necessary to do the honours of it to the new-comer. + "Sir," he said, modifying the alternate harsh and squeaking tones of his + voice into accents as harmonious as they could attain, "I understand you + to be the son of my worthy namesake, and ancient acquaintance, the stout + Sir Geoffrey Peveril of the Peak. I promise you, I have seen your father + where blows have been going more plenty than gold pieces; and for a tall + heavy man, who lacked, as we martialists thought, some of the lightness + and activity of our more slightly made Cavaliers, he performed his duty as + a man might desire. I am happy to see you, his son; and, though by a + mistake, I am glad we are to share this comfortless cabin together." + </p> + <p> + Julian bowed, and thanked his courtesy; and Geoffrey Hudson, having broken + the ice, preceded to question him without further ceremony. "You are no + courtier, I presume, young gentleman?" + </p> + <p> + Julian replied in the negative. + </p> + <p> + "I thought so," continued the dwarf; "for although I have now no official + duty at Court, the region in which my early years were spent, and where I + once held a considerable office, yet I still, when I had my liberty, + visited the Presence from time to time, as in duty bound for former + service; and am wont, from old habit, to take some note of the courtly + gallants, those choice spirits of the age, among whom I was once enrolled. + You are, not to compliment you, a marked figure, Master Peveril—though + something of the tallest, as was your father's case; I think, I could + scarce have seen you anywhere without remembering you." + </p> + <p> + Peveril thought he might, with great justice, have returned the + compliment, but contented himself with saying, "he had scarce seen the + British Court." + </p> + <p> + "Tis pity," said Hudson; "a gallant can hardly be formed without + frequenting it. But you have been perhaps in a rougher school; you have + served, doubtless?" + </p> + <p> + "My Maker, I hope," said Julian. + </p> + <p> + "Fie on it, you mistake. I meant," said Hudson, "<i>á la François</i>,—you + have served in the army?" + </p> + <p> + "No. I have not yet had that honour," said Julian. + </p> + <p> + "What! neither courtier nor soldier, Master Peveril?" said the important + little man: "your father is to blame. By cock and pie he is, Master + Peveril! How shall a man be known, or distinguished, unless by his bearing + in peace and war? I tell you, sir, that at Newberry, where I charged with + my troop abreast with Prince Rupert, and when, as you may have heard, we + were both beaten off by those cuckoldly hinds the Trained Bands of London,—we + did what men could; and I think it was a matter of three or four minutes + after most of our gentlemen had been driven off, that his Highness and I + continued to cut at their long pikes with our swords; and I think might + have broken in, but that I had a tall, long-legged brute of a horse, and + my sword was somewhat short,—in fine, at last we were obliged to + make volte-face, and then, as I was going to say, the fellows were so glad + to get rid of us, that they set up a great jubilee cry of 'There goes + Prince Robin and Cock Robin!'—Ay, ay, every scoundrel among them + knew me well. But those days are over.—And where were you educated, + young gentleman?" + </p> + <p> + Peveril named the household of the Countess of Derby. + </p> + <p> + "A most honourable lady, upon my word as a gentleman," said Hudson.—"I + knew the noble Countess well when I was about the person of my royal + mistress, Henrietta Maria. She was then the very muster of all that was + noble, loyal, and lovely. She was, indeed, one of the fifteen fair ones of + the Court, whom I permitted to call me Piccoluomini—a foolish jest + on my somewhat diminutive figure, which always distinguished me from + ordinary beings, even when I was young—I have now lost much stature + by stooping; but, always the ladies had their jest at me.—Perhaps, + young man, I had my own amends of some of them somewhere, and somehow or + other—I <i>say</i> nothing if I had or no; far less do I insinuate + disrespect to the noble Countess. She was daughter of the Duc de la + Tremouille, or, more correctly, des Thouars. But certainly to serve the + ladies, and condescend to their humours, even when somewhat too free, or + too fantastic, is the true decorum of gentle blood." + </p> + <p> + Depressed as his spirits were, Peveril could scarce forbear smiling when + he looked at the pigmy creature, who told these stories with infinite + complacency, and appeared disposed to proclaim, as his own herald, that he + had been a very model of valour and gallantry, though love and arms seemed + to be pursuits totally irreconcilable to his shrivelled, weather-beaten + countenance, and wasted limbs. Julian was, however, so careful to avoid + giving his companion pain, that he endeavoured to humour him, by saying, + that, "unquestionably, one bred up like Sir Geoffrey Hudson, in court and + camps, knew exactly when to suffer personal freedoms, and when to control + them." + </p> + <p> + The little Knight, with great vivacity, though with some difficulty, began + to drag his seat from the side of the fire opposite to that where Julian + was seated, and at length succeeded in bringing it near him, in token of + increasing cordiality. + </p> + <p> + "You say well, Master Peveril," said the dwarf; "and I have given proofs + both of bearing and forbearing. Yes, sir, there was not that thing which + my most royal mistress, Henrietta Maria, could have required of me, that I + would not have complied with, sir; I was her sworn servant, both in war + and in festival, in battle and pageant, sir. At her Majesty's particular + request, I once condescended to become—ladies, you know, have + strange fancies—to become the tenant, for a time, of the interior of + a pie." + </p> + <p> + "Of a pie?" said Julian, somewhat amazed. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, sir, of a pie. I hope you find nothing risible in my complaisance?" + replied his companion, something jealously. + </p> + <p> + "Not I, sir," said Peveril; "I have other matters than laughter in my head + at present." + </p> + <p> + "So had I," said the dwarfish champion, "when I found myself imprisoned in + a huge platter, of no ordinary dimensions you may be assured, since I + could lie at length in it, and when I was entombed, as it were, in walls + of standing crust, and a huge cover of pastry, the whole constituting a + sort of sarcophagus, of size enough to have recorded the epitaph of a + general officer or an archbishop on the lid. Sir, notwithstanding the + conveniences which were made to give me air, it was more like being buried + alive than aught else which I could think of." + </p> + <p> + "I conceive it, sir," said Julian. + </p> + <p> + "Moreover, sir," continued the dwarf, "there were few in the secret, which + was contrived for the Queen's divertisement; for advancing of which I + would have crept into a filbert nut, had it been possible; and few, as I + said, being private in the scheme, there was a risk of accidents. I + doubted, while in my darksome abode, whether some awkward attendant might + not have let me fall, as I have seen happen to a venison pasty; or whether + some hungry guest might not anticipate the moment of my resurrection, by + sticking his knife into my upper crust. And though I had my weapons about + me, young man, as has been my custom in every case of peril, yet, if such + a rash person had plunged deep into the bowels of the supposed pasty, my + sword and dagger could barely have served me to avenge, assuredly not to + prevent, either of these catastrophes." + </p> + <p> + "Certainly I do so understand it," said Julian, who began, however, to + feel that the company of little Hudson, talkative as he showed himself, + was likely rather to aggravate than to alleviate the inconveniences of a + prison. + </p> + <p> + "Nay," continued the little man, enlarging on his former topic, "I had + other subjects of apprehension; for it pleased my Lord of Buckingham, his + Grace's father who now bears the title, in his plenitude of Court favour, + to command the pasty to be carried down to the office, and committed anew + to the oven, alleging preposterously that it was better to be eaten warm + than cold." + </p> + <p> + "And did this, sir, not disturb your equanimity?" said Julian. + </p> + <p> + "My young friend," said Geoffrey Hudson, "I cannot deny it.—Nature + will claim her rights from the best and boldest of us.—I thought of + Nebuchadnezzar and his fiery furnace; and I waxed warm with apprehension.—But, + I thank Heaven, I also thought of my sworn duty to my royal mistress; and + was thereby obliged and enabled to resist all temptations to make myself + prematurely known. Nevertheless, the Duke—if of malice, may Heaven + forgive him—followed down into the office himself, and urged the + master-cook very hard that the pasty should be heated, were it but for + five minutes. But the master-cook, being privy to the very different + intentions of my royal mistress, did most manfully resist the order; and I + was again reconveyed in safety to the royal table." + </p> + <p> + "And in due time liberated from your confinement, I doubt not?" said + Peveril. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, sir; that happy, and I may say, glorious moment, at length arrived," + continued the dwarf. "The upper crust was removed—I started up to + the sound of trumpet and clarion, like the soul of a warrior when the last + summons shall sound—or rather (if that simile be over audacious), + like a spell-bound champion relieved from his enchanted state. It was then + that, with my buckler on my arm, and my trusty Bilboa in my hand, I + executed a sort of warlike dance, in which my skill and agility then + rendered me pre-eminent, displaying, at the same time my postures, both of + defence and offence, in a manner so totally inimitable, that I was almost + deafened with the applause of all around me, and half-drowned by the + scented waters with which the ladies of the Court deluged me from their + casting bottles. I had amends of his Grace of Buckingham also; for as I + tripped a hasty morris hither and thither upon the dining-table, now + offering my blade, now recovering it, I made a blow at his nose—a + sort of estramaçon—the dexterity of which consists in coming mighty + near to the object you seem to aim at, yet not attaining it. You may have + seen a barber make such a flourish with his razor. I promise you his Grace + sprung back a half-yard at least. He was pleased to threaten to brain me + with a chicken-bone, as he disdainfully expressed it; but the King said, + 'George, you have but a Rowland for an Oliver.' And so I tripped on, + showing a bold heedlessness of his displeasure, which few dared to have + done at that time, albeit countenanced to the utmost like me by the smiles + of the brave and the fair. But, well-a-day! sir, youth, its fashions, its + follies, its frolics, and all its pomp and pride, are as idle and + transitory as the crackling of thorns under a pot." + </p> + <p> + "The flower that is cast into the oven were a better simile," thought + Peveril. "Good God, that a man should live to regret not being young + enough to be still treated as baked meat, and served up in a pie!" + </p> + <p> + His companion, whose tongue had for many days been as closely imprisoned + as his person, seemed resolved to indemnify his loquacity, by continuing + to indulge it on the present occasion at his companion's expense. He + proceeded, therefore, in a solemn tone, to moralise on the adventure which + he had narrated. + </p> + <p> + "Young men will no doubt think one to be envied," he said, "who was thus + enabled to be the darling and admiration of the Court"—(Julian + internally stood self-exculpated from the suspicion)—"and yet it is + better to possess fewer means of distinction, and remain free from the + backbiting, the slander, and the odium, which are always the share of + Court favour. Men who had no other cause, cast reflections upon me because + my size varied somewhat from the common proportion; and jests were + sometimes unthinkingly passed upon me by those I was bound to, who did not + in that case, peradventure, sufficiently consider that the wren is made by + the same hand which formed the bustard, and that the diamond, though small + in size, out-values ten thousand-fold the rude granite. Nevertheless, they + proceeded in the vein of humour; and as I could not in duty or gratitude + retort upon nobles and princes, I was compelled to cast about in my mind + how to vindicate my honour towards those, who, being in the same rank with + myself, as servants and courtiers, nevertheless bore themselves towards me + as if they were of a superior class in the rank of honour, as well as in + the accidental circumstance of stature. And as a lesson to my own pride, + and that of others, it so happened, that the pageant which I have but just + narrated—which I justly reckon the most honourable moment of my + life, excepting perhaps my distinguished share in the battle of + Round-way-down—became the cause of a most tragic event, in which I + acknowledge the greatest misfortune of my existence." + </p> + <p> + The dwarf here paused, fetched a sigh, big at once with regret, and with + the importance becoming the subject of a tragic history; then proceeded as + follows:— + </p> + <p> + "You would have thought in your simplicity, young gentleman, that the + pretty pageant I have mentioned could only have been quoted to my + advantage, as a rare masking frolic, prettily devised, and not less deftly + executed; and yet the malice of the courtiers, who maligned and envied me, + made them strain their wit, and exhaust their ingenuity, in putting false + and ridiculous constructions upon it. In short, my ears were so much + offended with allusions to pies, puff-paste, ovens, and the like, that I + was compelled to prohibit such subject of mirth, under penalty of my + instant and severe displeasure. But it happ'd there was then a gallant + about the Court, a man of good quality, son to a knight baronet, and in + high esteem with the best in that sphere, also a familiar friend of mine + own, from whom, therefore, I had no reason to expect any of that species + of gibing which I had intimated my purpose to treat as offensive. Howbeit, + it pleased the Honourable Mr. Crofts, so was this youth called and + designed, one night, at the Groom Porter's being full of wine and waggery, + to introduce this threadbare subject, and to say something concerning a + goose-pie, which I could not but consider as levelled at me. Nevertheless, + I did but calmly and solidly pray him to choose a different subject; + failing which, I let him know I should be sudden in my resentment. + Notwithstanding, he continued in the same tone, and even aggravated the + offence, by speaking of a tomtit, and other unnecessary and obnoxious + comparisons; whereupon I was compelled to send him a cartel, and we met + accordingly. Now, as I really loved the youth, it was my intention only to + correct him by a flesh wound or two; and I would willingly that he had + named the sword for his weapon. Nevertheless, he made pistols his + election; and being on horseback, he produced by way of his own weapon, a + foolish engine, which children are wont, in their roguery, to use for + spouting water; a—a—in short, I forget the name." + </p> + <p> + "A squirt, doubtless," said Peveril, who began to recollect having heard + something of this adventure. + </p> + <p> + "You are right," said the dwarf; "you have indeed the name of the little + engine, of which I have had experience in passing the yards at + Westminster.—Well, sir, this token of slight regard compelled me to + give the gentleman such language, as soon rendered it necessary for him to + make more serious arms. We fought on horseback—breaking ground, and + advancing by signal; and, as I never miss aim, I had the misadventure to + kill the Honourable Master Crofts at the first shot. I would not wish my + worst foe the pain which I felt, when I saw him reel on his saddle, and so + fall down to the earth!—and, when I perceived that the life-blood + was pouring fast, I could not but wish to Heaven that it had been my own + instead of his. Thus fell youth, hopes, and bravery, a sacrifice to a + silly and thoughtless jest; yet, alas! wherein had I choice, seeing that + honour is, as it were, the very breath in our nostrils; and that in no + sense can we be said to live, if we permit ourselves to be deprived of + it?" + </p> + <p> + The tone of feeling in which the dwarfish hero concluded his story, gave + Julian a better opinion of his heart, and even of his understanding, than + he had been able to form of one who gloried in having, upon a grand + occasion, formed the contents of a pasty. He was indeed enabled to + conjecture that the little champion was seduced into such exhibitions, by + the necessity attached to his condition, by his own vanity, and by the + flattery bestowed on him by those who sought pleasure in practical jokes. + The fate of the unlucky Master Crofts, however, as well as various + exploits of this diminutive person during the Civil Wars, in which he + actually, and with great gallantry, commanded a troop of horse, rendered + most men cautious of openly rallying him; which was indeed the less + necessary, as, when left alone, he seldom failed voluntarily to show + himself on the ludicrous side. + </p> + <p> + At one hour after noon, the turnkey, true to his word, supplied the + prisoners with a very tolerable dinner and a flask of well-flavoured + though light claret; which the old man, who was something of a bon-vivant, + regretted to observe, was nearly as diminutive as himself. The evening + also passed away, but not without continued symptoms of garrulity on the + part of Geoffrey Hudson. + </p> + <p> + It is true these were of a graver character than he had hitherto + exhibited, for when the flask was empty, he repeated a long Latin prayer. + But the religious act in which he had been engaged, only gave his + discourse a more serious turn than belonged to his former themes, of war, + lady's love, and courtly splendour. + </p> + <p> + The little Knight harangued, at first on polemical points of divinity, and + diverged from this thorny path, into the neighbouring and twilight walk of + mysticism. He talked of secret warnings—of the predictions of + sad-eyed prophets—of the visits of monitory spirits, and the + Rosicrucian secrets of the Cabala; all which topics he treated of with + such apparent conviction, nay, with so many appeals to personal + experience, that one would have supposed him a member of the fraternity of + gnomes, or fairies, whom he resembled so much in point of size. + </p> + <p> + In short, he persevered for a stricken hour in such a torrent of + unnecessary tattle, as determined Peveril, at all events, to endeavour to + procure a separate lodging. Having repeated his evening prayers in Latin, + as formerly (for the old gentleman was a Catholic, which was the sole + cause of his falling under suspicion), he set off on a new score, as they + were undressing, and continued to prattle until he had fairly talked both + himself and his companion to sleep. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0035" id="link2HCH0035"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXV + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Of airy tongues that syllable men's names. + —COMUS. +</pre> + <p> + Julian had fallen asleep, with his brain rather filled with his own sad + reflections, than with the mystical lore of the little Knight; and yet it + seemed as if in his visions the latter had been more present to his mind + than the former. + </p> + <p> + He dreamed of gliding spirits, gibbering phantoms, bloody hands, which, + dimly seen by twilight, seemed to beckon him forward like errant-knight on + sad adventure bound. More than once he started from his sleep, so lively + was the influence of these visions on his imagination; and he always + awaked under the impression that some one stood by his bedside. The + chillness of his ankles, the weight and clatter of the fetters, as he + turned himself on his pallet, reminded him on these occasions where he + was, and under what circumstances. The extremity to which he saw all that + was dear to him at present reduced, struck a deeper cold on his heart than + the iron upon his limbs; nor could he compose himself again to rest + without a mental prayer to Heaven for protection. But when he had been for + a third time awakened from repose by these thick-stirring fancies, his + distress of mind vented itself in speech, and he was unable to suppress + the almost despairing ejaculation, "God have mercy upon us!" + </p> + <p> + "Amen!" answered a voice as sweet and "soft as honey dew," which sounded + as if the words were spoken close by his bedside. + </p> + <p> + The natural inference was, that Geoffrey Hudson, his companion in + calamity, had echoed the prayer which was so proper to the situation of + both. But the tone of voice was so different from the harsh and dissonant + sounds of the dwarf's enunciation, that Peveril was impressed with the + certainty it could not proceed from Hudson. He was struck with involuntary + terror, for which he could give no sufficient reason; and it was not + without an effort that he was able to utter the question, "Sir Geoffrey, + did you speak?" + </p> + <p> + No answer was returned. He repeated the question louder; and the same + silver-toned voice, which had formerly said "<i>Amen</i>" to his prayers, + answered to his interrogatory, "Your companion will not awake while I am + here." + </p> + <p> + "And who are you?—What seek you?—How came you into this + place?" said Peveril, huddling, eagerly, question upon question. + </p> + <p> + "I am a wretched being, but one who loves you well.—I come for your + good.—Concern yourself no farther." + </p> + <p> + It now rushed on Julian's mind that he had heard of persons possessed of + the wonderful talent of counterfeiting sounds to such accuracy, that they + could impose on their hearers the belief, that they proceeded from a point + of the apartment entirely opposite to that which the real speaker + occupied. Persuaded that he had now gained the depth of the mystery, he + replied, "This trifling, Sir Geoffrey, is unseasonable. Say what you have + to say in your own voice and manner. These apish pleasantries do not + become midnight in a Newgate dungeon." + </p> + <p> + "But the being who speaks with you," answered the voice, "is fitted for + the darkest hour, and the most melancholy haunts." + </p> + <p> + Impatient of suspense, and determined to satisfy his curiosity, Julian + jumped at once from his pallet, hoping to secure the speaker, whose voice + indicated he was so near. But he altogether failed in his attempt, and + grasped nothing save thin air. + </p> + <p> + For a turn or two, Peveril shuffled at random about the room, with his + arms extended; and then at last recollected, that with the impediment of + his shackles, and the noise which necessarily accompanied his motions, and + announced where he was, it would be impossible for him to lay hands on any + one who might be disposed to keep out of his reach. He therefore + endeavoured to return to his bed; but, in groping for his way, lighted + first on that of his fellow-prisoner. The little captive slept deep and + heavy, as was evinced from his breathing; and upon listening a moment, + Julian became again certain, either that his companion was the most artful + of ventriloquists and of dissemblers, or that there was actually within + the precincts of that guarded chamber, some third being, whose very + presence there seemed to intimate that it belonged not to the ordinary + line of humanity. + </p> + <p> + Julian was no ready believer in the supernatural; but that age was very + far from being so incredulous concerning ghostly occurrences as our own; + and it was no way derogatory to his good sense, that he shared the + prejudices of his time. His hair began to bristle, and the moisture to + stand on his brow, as he called on his companion to awake, for Heaven's + sake. + </p> + <p> + The dwarf answered—but he spoke without awaking.—"The day may + dawn and be d—d. Tell the master of the horse I will not go to the + hunting, unless I have the little black jennet." + </p> + <p> + "I tell you," said Julian, "there is some one in the apartment. Have you + not a tinder-box to strike a light?" + </p> + <p> + "I care not how slight my horse be," replied the slumberer, pursuing his + own train of ideas, which, doubtless, carried him back to the green woods + of Windsor, and the royal deer-hunts which he had witnessed there. "I am + not overweight—I will not ride that great Holstein brute, that I + must climb up to by a ladder, and then sit on his back like a pin-cushion + on an elephant." + </p> + <p> + Julian at length put his hand to the sleeper's shoulder, and shook him, so + as to awake him from his dream; when, after two or three snorts and + groans, the dwarf asked peevishly, what the devil ailed him? + </p> + <p> + "The devil himself, for what I know," said Peveril, "is at this very + moment in the room here beside us." + </p> + <p> + The dwarf on this information started up, crossed himself, and began to + hammer a flint and steel with all despatch, until he had lighted a little + piece of candle, which he said was consecrated to Saint Bridget, and as + powerful as the herb called <i>fuga dæmonum</i>, or the liver of the fish + burnt by Tobit in the house of Raguel, for chasing all goblins, and evil + or dubious spirits, from the place of its radiance; "if, indeed," as the + dwarf carefully guarded his proposition, "they existed anywhere, save in + the imagination of his fellow-prisoner." + </p> + <p> + Accordingly, the apartment was no sooner enlightened by this holy candle's + end, than Julian began to doubt the evidence of his own ears; for not only + was there no one in the room save Sir Geoffrey Hudson and himself, but all + the fastenings of the door were so secure, that it seemed impossible that + they could have been opened and again fixed, without a great deal of + noise, which, on the last occasion at least, could not possibly have + escaped his ears, seeing that he must have been on his feet, and employed + in searching the chamber, when the unknown, if an earthly being, was in + the act of retreating from it. + </p> + <p> + Julian gazed for a moment with great earnestness, and no little + perplexity, first on the bolted door, then on the grated window; and began + to accuse his own imagination of having played him an unpleasant trick. He + answered little to the questions of Hudson, and returning to his bed, + heard, in silence, a long studied oration on the merits of Saint Bridget, + which comprehended the greater part of her long-winded legend, and + concluded with the assurance, that, from all accounts preserved of her, + that holy saint was the least of all possible women, except those of the + pigmy kind. + </p> + <p> + By the time the dwarf had ceased to speak, Julian's desire of sleep had + returned; and after a few glances around the apartment, which was still + illuminated by the expiring beams of the holy taper, his eyes were again + closed in forgetfulness, and his repose was not again disturbed in the + course of that night. + </p> + <p> + Morning dawns on Newgate, as well as on the freest mountain-turf which + Welshman or wild-goat ever trode; but in so different a fashion, that the + very beams of heaven's precious sun, when they penetrate into the recesses + of the prison-house, have the air of being committed to jail. Still, with + the light of day around him, Peveril easily persuaded himself of the + vanity of his preceding night's visions; and smiled when he reflected that + fancies, similar to those to which his ear was often exposed in the Isle + of Man, had been able to arrange themselves in a manner so impressive, + when he heard them from the mouth of so singular a character as Hudson, + and in the solitude of a prison. + </p> + <p> + Before Julian had awaked, the dwarf had already quitted his bed, and was + seated in the chimney-corner of the apartment, where, with his own hands, + he had arranged a morsel of fire, partly attending to the simmering of a + small pot, which he had placed on the flame, partly occupied with a huge + folio volume which lay on the table before him, and seemed well-nigh as + tall and bulky as himself. He was wrapped up in the dusky crimson cloak + already mentioned, which served him for a morning-gown, as well as a + mantle against the cold, and which corresponded with a large montero-cap, + that enveloped his head. The singularity of his features, and of the eyes, + armed with spectacles, which were now cast on the subject of his studies, + now directed towards his little cauldron, would have tempted Rembrandt to + exhibit him on canvas, either in the character of an alchymist, or of a + necromancer, engaged in some strange experiment, under the direction of + one of the huge manuals which treat of the theory of these mystic arts. + </p> + <p> + The attention of the dwarf was bent, however, upon a more domestic object. + He was only preparing soup, of no unsavoury quality, for breakfast, which + he invited Peveril to partake with him. "I am an old soldier," he said, + "and, I must add, an old prisoner; and understand how to shift for myself + better than you can do, young man.—Confusion to the scoundrel Clink, + he has put the spice-box out of my reach!—Will you hand it me from + the mantelpiece?—I will teach you, as the French have it, <i>faire + la cuisine;</i> and then, if you please, we will divide, like brethren, + the labours of our prison house." + </p> + <p> + Julian readily assented to the little man's friendly proposal, without + interposing any doubt as to his continuing an inmate of the same cell. + Truth is, that although, upon the whole, he was inclined to regard the + whispering voice of the preceding evening as the impression of his own + excited fancy, he felt, nevertheless, curiosity to see how a second night + was to pass over in the same cell; and the tone of the invisible intruder, + which at midnight had been heard by him with terror, now excited, on + recollection, a gentle and not unpleasing species of agitation—the + combined effect of awe, and of awakened curiosity. + </p> + <p> + Days of captivity have little to mark them as they glide away. That which + followed the night which we have described afforded no circumstance of + note. The dwarf imparted to his youthful companion a volume similar to + that which formed his own studies, and which proved to be a tome of one of + Scuderi's now forgotten romances, of which Geoffrey Hudson was a great + admirer, and which were then very fashionable both at the French and + English Courts; although they contrive to unite in their immense folios + all the improbabilities and absurdities of the old romances of chivalry, + without that tone of imagination which pervades them, and all the + metaphysical absurdities which Cowley and the poets of the age had heaped + upon the passion of love, like so many load of small coal upon a slender + fire, which it smothers instead of aiding. + </p> + <p> + But Julian had no alternative, saving only to muse over the sorrows of + Artamenes and Mandane, or on the complicated distresses of his own + situation; and in these disagreeable divertisements, the morning crept + through as it could. + </p> + <p> + Noon first, and thereafter nightfall, were successively marked by a brief + visit from their stern turnkey, who, with noiseless step and sullen + demeanour, did in silence the necessary offices about the meals of the + prisoners, exchanging with them as few words as an official in the Spanish + Inquisition might have permitted himself upon a similar occasion. With the + same taciturn gravity, very different from the laughing humour into which + he had been surprised on a former occasion, he struck their fetters with a + small hammer, to ascertain, by the sound thus produced, whether they had + been tampered with by file or otherwise. He next mounted on a table, to + make the same experiment on the window-grating. + </p> + <p> + Julian's heart throbbed; for might not one of those grates have been so + tampered with as to give entrance to the nocturnal visitant? But they + returned to the experienced ear of Master Clink, when he struck them in + turn with the hammer, a clear and ringing sound, which assured him of + their security. + </p> + <p> + "It would be difficult for any one to get in through these defences," said + Julian, giving vent in words to his own feelings. + </p> + <p> + "Few wish that," answered the surly groom, misconstruing what was passing + in Peveril's mind; "and let me tell you, master, folks will find it quite + as difficult to get out." He retired, and night came on. + </p> + <p> + The dwarf, who took upon himself for the day the whole duties of the + apartment, trundled about the room, making a most important clatter as he + extinguished their fire, and put aside various matters which had been in + use in the course of the day, talking to himself all the while in a tone + of no little consequence, occasionally grounded on the dexterity with + which an old soldier could turn his hand to anything. Then came the + repetition of his accustomed prayers; but his disposition to converse did + not, as on the former occasion, revive after his devotions. On the + contrary, long before Julian had closed an eye, the heavy breathing from + Sir Geoffrey Hudson's pallet declared that the dwarf was already in the + arms of Morpheus. + </p> + <p> + Amid the total darkness of the apartment, and with a longing desire, and + at the same time no small fear, for the recurrence of the mysterious + address of the preceding evening, Julian lay long awake without his + thoughts receiving any interruption save when the clock told the passing + hour from the neighbouring steeple of St. Sepulchre. At length he sunk + into slumber; but had not slept to his judgment above an hour, when he was + roused by the sound which his waking ear had so long expected in vain. + </p> + <p> + "Can you sleep?—Will you sleep?—Dare you sleep?" were the + questions impressed on his ear, in the same clear, soft, and melodious + voice, which had addressed him on the preceding night. + </p> + <p> + "Who is it asks me the question?" answered Julian. "But be the questioner + good or evil, I reply that I am a guiltless prisoner; and that innocence + may wish and dare to sleep soundly." + </p> + <p> + "Ask no questions of me," said the voice; "neither attempt to discover who + speaks to you; and be assured that folly alone can sleep, with fraud + around and danger before him." + </p> + <p> + "Can you, who tell me of dangers, counsel me how to combat or how to avoid + them?" said Julian. + </p> + <p> + "My power is limited," said the voice; "yet something I can do, as the + glow-worm can show a precipice. But you must confide in me." + </p> + <p> + "Confidence must beget confidence," answered Julian. "I cannot repose + trust in I know not what or whom." + </p> + <p> + "Speak not so loud," replied the voice, sinking almost into a whisper. + </p> + <p> + "Last night you said my companion would not awake," said Julian. + </p> + <p> + "To-night I warrant not that he shall sleep," said the voice. And as it + spoke, the hoarse, snatching, discordant tones of the dwarf were heard, + demanding of Julian why he talked in his sleep—wherefore he did not + rest himself, and let other people rest—and, finally, whether his + visions of last night were returned upon him again? + </p> + <p> + "Say yes," said the voice in a whisper, so low, yet so distinct, that + Julian almost doubted whether it was not an echo of his own thought.—"Say + but yes—and I part to return no more!" + </p> + <p> + In desperate circumstances men look to strange and unusual remedies; and + although unable to calculate the chances of advantage which this singular + communication opened to him, Julian did not feel inclined to let them at + once escape from him. He answered the dwarf, that he had been troubled by + an alarming dream. + </p> + <p> + "I could have sworn it, from the sound of your voice," said Hudson. "It is + strange, now, that you overgrown men never possess the extreme firmness of + nerves proper to us who are cast in a more compact mould. My own voice + retains its masculine sounds on all occasions. Dr. Cockerel was of + opinion, that there was the same allowance of nerve and sinew to men of + every size, and that nature spun the stock out thinner or stronger, + according to the extent of surface which they were to cover. Hence, the + least creatures are oftentimes the strongest. Place a beetle under a tall + candlestick, and the insect will move it by its efforts to get out; which + is, in point of comparative strength, as if one of us should shake his + Majesty's prison of Newgate by similar struggles. Cats also, and weasels, + are creatures of greater exertion or endurance than dogs or sheep. And in + general, you may remark, that little men dance better, and are more + unwearied under exertion of every kind, than those to whom their own + weight must necessarily be burdensome. I respect you, Master Peveril, + because I am told you have killed one of those gigantic fellows, who go + about swaggering as if their souls were taller than ours, because their + noses are nearer to the clouds by a cubit or two. But do not value + yourself on this as anything very unusual. I would have you to know it + hath been always thus; and that, in the history of all ages, the clean, + tight, dapper little fellow, hath proved an overmatch for his bulky + antagonist. I need only instance out of Holy Writ, the celebrated downfall + of Goliah, and of another lubbard, who had more fingers to his hand, and + more inches to his stature, than ought to belong to an honest man, and who + was slain by a nephew of good King David; and of many others whom I do not + remember; nevertheless they were all Philistines of gigantic stature. In + the classics, also, you have Tydeus, and other tight, compact heroes, + whose diminutive bodies were the abode of large minds. And indeed you may + observe, in sacred as well as profane history, that your giants are ever + heretics and blasphemers, robbers and oppressors, outragers of the female + sex, and scoffers at regular authority. Such were Gog and Magog, whom our + authentic chronicles vouch to have been slain near to Plymouth, by the + good little Knight Corineus, who gave name to Cornwall. Ascaparte also was + subdued by Bevis, and Colbrand by Guy, as Southampton and Warwick can + testify. Like unto these was the giant Hoel, slain in Bretagne by King + Arthur. And if Ryence, King of North Wales, who was done to death by the + same worthy champion of Christendom, be not actually termed a giant, it is + plain he was little better, since he required twenty-four kings' beards, + which were then worn full and long, to fur his gown; whereby computing + each beard at eighteen inches (and you cannot allow less for a + beard-royal), and supposing only the front of the gown trimmed therewith, + as we use ermine; and that the back was mounted and lined, instead of + cat-skins and squirrels' fur, with the beards of earls and dukes, and + other inferior dignitaries—may amount to—But I will work the + question to-morrow." + </p> + <p> + Nothing is more soporific to any (save a philosopher or moneyed man) than + the operation of figures; and when in bed, the effect is irresistible. Sir + Geoffrey fell asleep in the act of calculating King Ryence's height, from + the supposed length of his mantle. Indeed, had he not stumbled on this + abstruse subject of calculation, there is no guessing how long he might + have held forth upon the superiority of men of little stature, which was + so great a favourite with him, that, numerous as such narratives are, the + dwarf had collected almost all the instances of their victories over + giants, which history or romance afforded. + </p> + <p> + No sooner had unequivocal signs of the dwarf's sound slumbers reached + Julian's ears, than he began to listen eagerly for the renewal of that + mysterious communication which was at once interesting and awful. Even + whilst Hudson was speaking, he had, instead of bestowing his attention + upon his eulogy on persons of low statue, kept his ears on watchful guard + to mark if possible, the lightest sounds of any sort which might occur in + the apartment; so that he thought it scarce possible that even a fly + should have left it withouts its motion being overheard. If, therefore, + his invisible monitor was indeed a creature of this world—an opinion + which Julian's sound sense rendered him unwilling to renounce—that + being could not have left the apartment; and he waited impatiently for a + renewal of their communication. He was disappointed; not the slightest + sound reached his ear; and the nocturnal visitor, if still in the room, + appeared determined on silence. + </p> + <p> + It was in vain that Peveril coughed, hemmed, and gave other symptoms of + being awake; at length, such became his impatience, that he resolved, at + any risk, to speak first, in hopes of renewing the communication betwixt + them. "Whoever thou art," he said, in a voice loud enough to be heard by a + waking person, but not so high as to disturb his sleeping companion—"Whoever, + or whatever thou art, thou hast shown some interest in the fate of such a + castaway as Julian Peveril, speak once more, I conjure thee; and be your + communication for good or evil, believe me, I am equally prepared to abide + the issue." + </p> + <p> + No answer of any kind was returned to this invocation; nor did the least + sound intimate the presence of the being to whom it was so solemnly + addressed. + </p> + <p> + "I speak in vain," said Julian; "and perhaps I am but invoking that which + is insensible of human feeling, or which takes a malign pleasure in human + suffering." + </p> + <p> + There was a gentle and half-broken sigh from a corner of the apartment, + which, answering to this exclamation, seemed to contradict the imputation + which it conveyed. + </p> + <p> + Julian, naturally courageous, and familiarised by this time to his + situation, raised himself in bed, and stretched out his arm, to repeat his + adjuration, when the voice, as if alarmed at his action and energy, + whispered, in a tone more hurried than that which it had hitherto used, + "Be still—move not—or I am mute for ever!" + </p> + <p> + "It is then a mortal being who is present with me," was the natural + inference of Julian, "and one who is probably afraid of being detected; I + have then some power over my visitor, though I must be cautious how I use + it.—If your intents are friendly," he proceeded, "there was never a + time in which I lacked friends more, or would be more grateful for + kindness. The fate of all who are dear to me is weighed in the balance, + and with worlds would I buy the tidings of their safety." + </p> + <p> + "I have said my power is limited," replied the voice. "<i>You</i> I may be + able to preserve—the fate of your friends is beyond my control." + </p> + <p> + "Let me at least know it," said Julian; "and, be it as it may, I will not + shun to share it." + </p> + <p> + "For whom would you inquire?" said the soft, sweet voice, not without a + tremulousness of accent, as if the question was put with diffident + reluctance. + </p> + <p> + "My parents," said Julian, after a moment's hesitation; "how fare they?—What + will be their fate?" + </p> + <p> + "They fare as the fort under which the enemy has dug a deadly mine. The + work may have cost the labour of years, such were the impediments to the + engineers; but Time brings opportunity upon its wings." + </p> + <p> + "And what will be the event?" said Peveril. + </p> + <p> + "Can I read the future," answered the voice, "save by comparison with + past?—Who has been hunted on these stern and unmitigable + accusations, but has been at last brought to bay? Did high and noble + birth, honoured age, and approved benevolence, save the unfortunate Lord + Stafford? Did learning, capacity of intrigue, or high Court favour, redeem + Coleman, although the confidential servant of the heir presumptive of the + Crown of England?—Did subtilty and genius, and exertions of a + numerous sect, save Fenwicke, or Whitbread, or any other of the accused + priests?—Were Groves, Pickering, or the other humble wretches who + have suffered, safe in their obscurity? There is no condition in life, no + degree of talent, no form of principle, which affords protection against + an accusation, which levels conditions, confounds characters, renders + men's virtues their sins, and rates them as dangerous in proportion as + they have influence, though attained in the noblest manner, and used for + the best purposes. Call such a one but an accessory to the Plot—let + him be mouthed in the evidence of Oates or Dugdale—and the blindest + shall foresee the issue of their trial." + </p> + <p> + "Prophet of Evil!" said Julian, "my father has a shield invulnerable to + protect him. He is innocent." + </p> + <p> + "Let him plead his innocence at the bar of Heaven," said the voice; "it + will serve him little where Scroggs presides." + </p> + <p> + "Still I fear not," said Julian, counterfeiting more confidence than he + really possessed; "my father's cause will be pleaded before twelve + Englishmen." + </p> + <p> + "Better before twelve wild beasts," answered the Invisible, "than before + Englishmen, influenced with party prejudice, passion, and epidemic terror + of an imaginary danger. They are bold in guilt in proportion to the number + amongst whom the crime is divided." + </p> + <p> + "Ill-omened speaker," said Julian, "thine is indeed a voice fitted only to + sound with the midnight bell, and the screeching owl. Yet speak again. + Tell me, if thou canst"—(He would have said of Alice Bridgenorth, + but the word would not leave his tongue)—"Tell me," he said, "if the + noble house of Derby——" + </p> + <p> + "Let them keep their rock like the sea-fowl in the tempest; and it may so + fall out," answered the voice, "that their rock may be a safe refuge. But + there is blood on their ermine; and revenge has dogged them for many a + year, like a bloodhound that hath been distanced in the morning chase, but + may yet grapple the quarry ere the sun shall set. At present, however, + they are safe.—Am I now to speak farther on your own affairs, which + involve little short of your life and honour?" + </p> + <p> + "There is," said Julian, "one, from whom I was violently parted yesterday; + if I knew but of her safety, I were little anxious for my own." + </p> + <p> + "One!" returned the voice, "only <i>one</i> from whom you were parted + yesterday?" + </p> + <p> + "But in parting from whom," said Julian, "I felt separated from all + happiness which the world can give me." + </p> + <p> + "You mean Alice Bridgenorth," said the Invisible, with some bitterness of + accent; "but her you will never see more. Your own life and hers depend on + your forgetting each other." + </p> + <p> + "I cannot purchase my own life at that price," replied Julian. + </p> + <p> + "Then DIE in your obstinacy," returned the Invisible; nor to all the + entreaties which he used was he able obtain another word in the course of + that remarkable night. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0036" id="link2HCH0036"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXVI + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + A short hough'd man, but full of pride. + —ALLAN RAMSAY. +</pre> + <p> + The blood of Julian Peveril was so much fevered by the state in which his + invisible visitor left him, that he was unable, for a length of time, to + find repose. He swore to himself, that he would discover and expose the + nocturnal demon which stole on his hours of rest, only to add gall to + bitterness, and to pour poison into those wounds which already smarted so + severely. There was nothing which his power extended to, that, in his + rage, he did not threaten. He proposed a closer and a more rigorous survey + of his cell, so that he might discover the mode by which his tormentor + entered, were it as unnoticeable as an auger-hole. If his diligence should + prove unavailing, he determined to inform the jailers, to whom it could + not be indifferent to know, that their prison was open to such intrusions. + He proposed to himself, to discover from their looks whether they were + already privy to these visits; and if so, to denounce them to the + magistrates, to the judges, to the House of Commons, was the least that + his resentment proposed. Sleep surprised his worn-out frame in the midst + of his projects of discovery and vengeance, and, as frequently happens, + the light of the ensuing day proved favourable to calmer resolutions. + </p> + <p> + He now reflected that he had no ground to consider the motives of his + visitor as positively malevolent, although he had afforded him little + encouragement to hope for assistance on the points he had most at heart. + Towards himself, there had been expressed a decided feeling, both of + sympathy and interest; if through means of these he could acquire his + liberty, he might, when possessed of freedom, turn it to the benefit of + those for whom he was more interested than for his own welfare. "I have + behaved like a fool," he said; "I ought to have temporised with this + singular being, learned the motives of its interference, and availed + myself of its succour, provided I could do so without any dishonourable + conditions. It would have been always time enough to reject such when they + should have been proposed to me." + </p> + <p> + So saying, he was forming projects for regulating his intercourse with the + stranger more prudently, in case their communication should be renewed, + when his meditations were interrupted by the peremptory summons of Sir + Geoffrey Hudson, that he would, in his turn, be pleased to perform those + domestic duties of their common habitation, which the dwarf had yesterday + taken upon himself. + </p> + <p> + There was no resisting a request so reasonable, and Peveril accordingly + rose and betook himself to the arrangement of their prison, while Sir + Hudson, perched upon a stool from which his legs did not by half-way reach + the ground, sat in a posture of elegant languor, twangling upon an old + broken-winded guitar, and singing songs in Spanish, Moorish, and Lingua + Franca, most detestably out of tune. He failed not, at the conclusion of + each ditty, to favour Julian with some account of what he had sung, either + in the way of translation, or historical anecdote, or as the lay was + connected with some peculiar part of his own eventful history, in the + course of which the poor little man had chanced to have been taken by a + Sallee rover, and carried captive into Morocco. + </p> + <p> + This part of his life Hudson used to make the era of many strange + adventures; and, if he could himself be believed, he had made wild work + among the affections of the Emperor's seraglio. But, although few were in + a situation to cross-examine him on gallantries and intrigues of which the + scene was so remote, the officers of the garrison of Tangier had a report + current amongst them, that the only use to which the tyrannical Moors + could convert a slave of such slender corporeal strength, was to employ + him to lie a-bed all day and hatch turkey's eggs. The least allusion to + this rumour used to drive him well-nigh frantic, and the fatal termination + of his duel with young Crofts, which began in wanton mirth, and ended in + bloodshed, made men more coy than they had formerly been, of making the + fiery little hero the subject of their raillery. + </p> + <p> + While Peveril did the drudgery of the apartment, the dwarf remained much + at his ease, carolling in the manner we have described; but when he beheld + Julian attempting the task of the cook, Sir Geoffrey Hudson sprang from + the stool on which he sat <i>en Signor</i>, at the risk of breaking both + his guitar and his neck, exclaiming, "That he would rather prepare + breakfast every morning betwixt this and the day of judgment, than commit + a task of such consequence to an inexperienced bungler like his + companion." + </p> + <p> + The young man gladly resigned his task to the splenetic little Knight, and + only smiled at his resentment when he added, that, to be but a mortal of + middle stature, Julian was as stupid as a giant. Leaving the dwarf to + prepare the meal after his own pleasure, Peveril employed himself in + measuring the room with his eyes on every side, and in endeavouring to + discover some private entrance, such as might admit his midnight visitant, + and perhaps could be employed in case of need for effecting his own + escape. The floor next engaged a scrutiny equally minute, but more + successful. + </p> + <p> + Close by his own pallet, and dropped in such a manner that he must have + seen it sooner but for the hurry with which he obeyed the summons of the + impatient dwarf, lay a slip of paper, sealed, and directed with the + initial letters, J.P., which seemed to ascertain that it was addressed to + himself. He took the opportunity of opening it while the soup was in the + very moment of projection, and the full attention of his companion was + occupied by what he, in common with wiser and taller men, considered as + one of the principal occupations of life; so that, without incurring his + observation or awaking his curiosity, Julian had the opportunity to read + as follows:— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "Rash and infatuated as you are, there is one who would forfeit + much to stand betwixt you and your fate. You are to-morrow to be + removed to the Tower, where your life cannot be assured for a + single day; for, during the few hours you have been in London, you + have provoked a resentment which is not easily slaked. There is + but one chance for you,—renounce A.B.—think no more of her. If + that be impossible, think of her but as one whom you can never see + again. If your heart can resolve to give up an attachment which it + should never have entertained, and which it would be madness to + cherish longer, make your acquiescence in this condition known by + putting on your hat a white band, or white feather, or knot of + ribbon of the same colour, whichever you may most easily come by. + A boat will, in that case, run, as if by accident, on board of + that which is to convey you to the Tower. Do you in the confusion + jump overboard, and swim to the Southwark side of the Thames. + Friends will attend there to secure your escape, and you will find + yourself with one who will rather lose character and life, than + that a hair of your head should fall to the ground; but who, if + you reject the warning, can only think of you as of the fool who + perishes in his folly. May Heaven guide you to a sound judgment of + your condition! So prays one who would be your friend, if you + pleased, + "UNKNOWN." +</pre> + <p> + The Tower!—it was a word of terror, even more so than a civil + prison; for how many passages to death did that dark structure present! + The severe executions which it had witnessed in preceding reigns, were not + perhaps more numerous than the secret murders which had taken place within + its walls; yet Peveril did not a moment hesitate on the part which he had + to perform. "I will share my father's fate," he said; "I thought but of + him when they brought me hither; I will think of nothing else when they + convey me to yonder still more dreadful place of confinement; it is his, + and it is but meet that it should be his son's.—And thou, Alice + Bridgenorth, the day that I renounce thee, may I be held alike a traitor + and a dastard!—Go, false adviser, and share the fate of seducers and + heretical teachers!" + </p> + <p> + He could not help uttering this last expression aloud, as he threw the + billet into the fire, with a vehemence which made the dwarf start with + surprise. "What say you of burning heretics, young man?" he exclaimed; "by + my faith, your zeal must be warmer than mine, if you talk on such a + subject when the heretics are the prevailing number. May I measure six + feet without my shoes, but the heretics would have the best of it if we + came to that work. Beware of such words." + </p> + <p> + "Too late to beware of words spoken and heard," said the turnkey, who, + opening the door with unusual precautions to avoid noise, had stolen + unperceived into the room; "However, Master Peveril has behaved like a + gentlemen, and I am no tale-bearer, on condition he will consider I have + had trouble in his matters." + </p> + <p> + Julian had no alternative but to take the fellow's hint and administer a + bribe, with which Master Clink was so well satisfied, that he exclaimed, + "It went to his heart to take leave of such a kind-natured gentleman, and + that he could have turned the key on him for twenty years with pleasure. + But the best friends must part." + </p> + <p> + "I am to be removed, then?" said Julian. + </p> + <p> + "Ay, truly, master, the warrant is come from the Council." + </p> + <p> + "To convey me to the Tower." + </p> + <p> + "Whew!" exclaimed the officer of the law—"who the devil told you + that? But since you do know it, there is no harm to say ay. So make + yourself ready to move immediately; and first, hold out your dew-beaters + till I take off the darbies." + </p> + <p> + "Is that usual?" said Peveril, stretching out his feet as the fellow + directed, while his fetters were unlocked. + </p> + <p> + "Why, ay, master, these fetters belong to the keeper; they are not a-going + to send them to the Lieutenant, I trow. No, no, the warders must bring + their own gear with them; they get none here, I promise them. + Nevertheless, if your honour hath a fancy to go in fetters, as thinking it + may move compassion of your case——" + </p> + <p> + "I have no intention to make my case seem worse than it is," said Julian; + whilst at the same time it crossed his mind that his anonymous + correspondent must be well acquainted both with his own personal habits, + since the letter proposed a plan of escape which could only be executed by + a bold swimmer, and with the fashions of prison, since it was foreseen + that he would not be ironed on his passage to the Tower. The turnkey's + next speech made him carry conjecture still farther. + </p> + <p> + "There is nothing in life I would not do for so brave a guest," said + Clink; "I would nab one of my wife's ribbons for you, if your honour had + the fancy to mount the white flag in your beaver." + </p> + <p> + "To what good purpose?" said Julian, shortly connecting, as was natural, + the man's proposed civility with the advice given and the signal + prescribed in the letter. + </p> + <p> + "Nay, to no good purpose I know of," said the turnkey; "only it is the + fashion to seem white and harmless—a sort of token of + not-guiltiness, as I may say, which folks desire to show the world, + whether they be truly guilty or not; but I cannot say that guiltiness or + not-guiltiness argufies much, saving they be words in the verdict." + </p> + <p> + "Strange," thought Peveril, although the man seemed to speak quite + naturally, and without any double meaning, "strange that all should + apparently combine to realise the plan of escape, could I but give my + consent to it! And had I not better consent? Whoever does so much for me + must wish me well, and a well-wisher would never enforce the unjust + conditions on which I am required to consent to my liberation." + </p> + <p> + But this misgiving of his resolution was but for a moment. He speedily + recollected, that whoever aided him in escaping, must be necessarily + exposed to great risk, and had a right to name the stipulation on which he + was willing to incur it. He also recollected that falsehood is equally + base, whether expressed in words or in dumb show; and that he should lie + as flatly by using the signal agreed upon in evidence of his renouncing + Alice Bridgenorth, as he would in direct terms if he made such + renunciation without the purpose of abiding by it. + </p> + <p> + "If you would oblige me," he said to the turnkey, "let me have a piece of + black silk or crape for the purpose you mention." + </p> + <p> + "Of crape!" said the fellow; "what should that signify? Why, the bien + morts, who bing out to tour at you,[*] will think you a chimney-sweeper on + Mayday." + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [*] The smart girls, who turn out to look at you. +</pre> + <p> + "It will show my settled sorrow," said Julian, "as well as my determined + resolution." + </p> + <p> + "As you will, sir," answered the fellow; "I'll provide you with a black + rag of some kind or other. So, now; let us be moving." + </p> +<div class="fig" style="width:65%;"> + <img src="images/0455m.jpg" alt="0455m " width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <h5> + <a href="images/0455.jpg"><i>Original</i></a> + </h5> + <p> + Julian intimated his readiness to attend him, and proceeded to bid + farewell to his late companion, the stout Geoffrey Hudson. The parting was + not without emotion on both sides, more particularly on that of the poor + little man, who had taken a particular liking to the companion of whom he + was now about to be deprived. "Fare ye well," he said, "my young friend," + taking Julian's hand in both his own uplifted palms, in which action he + somewhat resembled the attitude of a sailor pulling a rope overhead,—"Many + in my situation would think himself wronged, as a soldier and servant of + the king's chamber, in seeing you removed to a more honourable prison than + that which I am limited unto. But, I thank God, I grudge you not the + Tower, nor the rocks of Scilly, nor even Carisbrooke Castle, though the + latter was graced with the captivity of my blessed and martyred master. Go + where you will, I wish you all the distinction of an honourable + prison-house, and a safe and speedy deliverance in God's own time. For + myself, my race is near a close, and that because I fall martyr to the + over-tenderness of my own heart. There is a circumstance, good Master + Julian Peveril, which should have been yours, had Providence permitted our + farther intimacy, but it fits not the present hour. Go, then, my friend, + and bear witness in life and death, that Geoffrey Hudson scorns the + insults and persecutions of fortune, as he would despise, and has often + despised, the mischievous pranks of an overgrown schoolboy." + </p> + <p> + So saying, he turned away, and hid his face with his little handkerchief, + while Julian felt towards him that tragi-comic sensation which makes us + pity the object which excites it, not the less that we are somewhat + inclined to laugh amid our sympathy. The jailer made him a signal, which + Peveril obeyed, leaving the dwarf to disconsolate solitude. + </p> + <p> + As Julian followed the keeper through the various windings of his penal + labyrinth, the man observed, that "he was a rum fellow, that little Sir + Geoffrey, and, for gallantry, a perfect Cock of Bantam, for as old as he + was. There was a certain gay wench," he said, "that had hooked him; but + what she could make of him, save she carried him to Smithfield, and took + money for him, as for a motion of puppets, it was," he said, "hard to + gather." + </p> + <p> + Encouraged by this opening, Julian asked if his attendant knew why his + prison was changed. "To teach you to become a King's post without + commission," answered the fellow. + </p> + <p> + He stopped in his tattle as they approached that formidable central point, + in which lay couched on his leathern elbow-chair the fat commander of the + fortress, stationed apparently for ever in the midst of his citadel, as + the huge Boa is sometimes said to lie stretched as a guard upon the + subterranean treasures of Eastern Rajas. This overgrown man of authority + eyed Julian wistfully and sullenly, as the miser the guinea which he must + part with, or the hungry mastiff the food which is carried to another + kennel. He growled to himself as he turned the leaves of his ominous + register, in order to make the necessary entry respecting the removal of + his prisoner. "To the Tower—to the Tower—ay, ay, all must to + the Tower—that's the fashion of it—free Britons to a military + prison, as if we had neither bolts nor chains here!—I hope + Parliament will have it up, this Towering work, that's all.—Well, + the youngster will take no good by the change, and that is one comfort." + </p> + <p> + Having finished at once his official act of registration, and his + soliloquy, he made a signal to his assistants to remove Julian, who was + led along the same stern passages which he had traversed upon his + entrance, to the gate of the prison, whence a coach, escorted by two + officers of justice, conveyed him to the water-side. + </p> + <p> + A boat here waited him, with four warders of the Tower, to whose custody + he was formally resigned by his late attendants. Clink, however, the + turnkey, with whom he was more especially acquainted, did not take leave + of him without furnishing him with the piece of black crape which he + requested. Peveril fixed it on his hat amid the whispers of his new + guardians. "The gentleman is in a hurry to go into mourning," said one; + "mayhap he had better wait till he has cause." + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps others may wear mourning for him, ere he can mourn for any one," + answered another of these functionaries. + </p> + <p> + Yet notwithstanding the tenor of these whispers, their behaviour to their + prisoner was more respectful than he had experienced from his former + keepers, and might be termed a sullen civility. The ordinary officers of + the law were in general rude, as having to do with felons of every + description; whereas these men were only employed with persons accused of + state crimes—men who were from birth and circumstances usually + entitled to expect, and able to reward, decent usage. + </p> + <p> + The change of keepers passed unnoticed by Julian, as did the gay and busy + scene presented by the broad and beautiful river on which he was now + launched. A hundred boats shot past them, bearing parties intent on + business, or on pleasure. Julian only viewed them with the stern hope, + that whoever had endeavoured to bribe him from his fidelity by the hope of + freedom, might see, from the colour of the badge which he had assumed, how + determined he was to resist the temptation presented to him. + </p> + <p> + It was about high-water, and a stout wherry came up the river, with sail + and oar, so directly upon that in which Julian was embarked, that it + seemed as if likely to run her aboard. "Get your carabines ready," cried + the principal warder to his assistants. "What the devil can these + scoundrels mean?" + </p> + <p> + But the crew in the other boat seemed to have perceived their error, for + they suddenly altered their course, and struck off into the middle stream, + while a torrent of mutual abuse was exchanged betwixt them and the boat + whose course they had threatened to impede. + </p> + <p> + "The Unknown has kept his faith," said Julian to himself; "I too have kept + mine." + </p> + <p> + It even seemed to him, as the boats neared each other, that he heard, from + the other wherry, something like a stifled scream or groan; and when the + momentary bustle was over, he asked the warder who sat next him, what boat + that was. + </p> + <p> + "Men-of-war's-men, on a frolic, I suppose," answered the warder. "I know + no one else would be so impudent as run foul of the King's boat; for I am + sure the fellow put the helm up on purpose. But mayhap you, sir, know more + of the matter than I do." + </p> + <p> + This insinuation effectually prevented Julian from putting farther + questions, and he remained silent until the boat came under the dusky + bastions of the Tower. The tide carried them up under a dark and lowering + arch, closed at the upper end by the well-known Traitor's gate,[*] formed + like a wicket of huge intersecting bars of wood, through which might be + seen a dim and imperfect view of soldiers and warders upon duty, and of + the steep ascending causeway which leads up from the river into the + interior of the fortress. By this gate,—and it is the well-known + circumstance which assigned its name,—those accused of state crimes + were usually committed to the Tower. The Thames afforded a secret and + silent mode of conveyance for transporting thither such whose fallen + fortunes might move the commiseration, or whose popular qualities might + excite the sympathy, of the public; and even where no cause for especial + secrecy existed, the peace of the city was undisturbed by the tumult + attending the passage of the prisoner and his guards through the most + frequented streets. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [*] See note, "Fortunes of Nigel." +</pre> + <p> + Yet this custom, however recommended by state policy, must have often + struck chill upon the heart of the criminal, who thus, stolen, as it were, + out of society, reached the place of his confinement, without encountering + even one glance of compassion on the road; and as, from under the dusky + arch, he landed on those flinty steps, worn by many a footstep anxious as + his own, against which the tide lapped fitfully with small successive + waves, and hence looked forward to the steep ascent into a Gothic state + prison, and backward to such part of the river as the low-brow'd vault + suffered to become visible, he must often have felt that he was leaving + daylight, hope, and life itself, behind him. + </p> + <p> + While the warder's challenge was made and answered, Peveril endeavoured to + obtain information from his conductors where he was likely to be confined; + but the answer was brief and general—"Where the Lieutenant should + direct." + </p> + <p> + "Could he not be permitted to share the imprisonment of his father, Sir + Geoffrey Peveril?" He forgot not, on this occasion, to add the surname of + his house. + </p> + <p> + The warder, an old man of respectable appearance, stared, as if at the + extravagance of the demand, and said bluntly, "It is impossible." + </p> + <p> + "At least," said Peveril, "show me where my father is confined, that I may + look upon the walls which separate us." + </p> + <p> + "Young gentleman," said the senior warder, shaking his grey head, "I am + sorry for you; but asking questions will do you no service. In this place + we know nothing of fathers and sons." + </p> + <p> + Yet chance seemed, in a few minutes afterwards, to offer Peveril that + satisfaction which the rigour of his keepers was disposed to deny to him. + As he was conveyed up the steep passage which leads under what is called + the Wakefield Tower, a female voice, in a tone wherein grief and joy were + indescribably mixed, exclaimed, "My son!—My dear son!" + </p> + <p> + Even those who guarded Julian seemed softened by a tone of such acute + feeling. They slackened their pace. They almost paused to permit him to + look up towards the casement from which the sounds of maternal agony + proceeded; but the aperture was so narrow, and so closely grated, that + nothing was visible save a white female hand, which grasped one of those + rusty barricadoes, as if for supporting the person within, while another + streamed a white handkerchief, and then let it fall. The casement was + instantly deserted. + </p> + <p> + "Give it me," said Julian to the officer who lifted the handkerchief; "it + is perhaps a mother's last gift." + </p> + <p> + The old warder lifted the napkin, and looked at it with the jealous + minuteness of one who is accustomed to detect secret correspondence in the + most trifling acts of intercourse. + </p> + <p> + "There may be writing on it with invisible ink," said one of his comrades. + </p> + <p> + "It is wetted, but I think it is only with tears," answered the senior. "I + cannot keep it from the poor young gentleman." + </p> + <p> + "Ah, Master Coleby," said his comrade, in a gentle tone of reproach, "you + would have been wearing a better coat than a yeoman's to-day, had it not + been for your tender heart." + </p> + <p> + "It signifies little," said old Coleby, "while my heart is true to my + King, what I feel in discharging my duty, or what coat keeps my old bosom + from the cold weather." + </p> + <p> + Peveril, meanwhile, folded in his breast the token of his mother's + affection which chance had favoured him with; and when placed in the small + and solitary chamber which he was told to consider as his own during his + residence in the Tower, he was soothed even to weeping by this trifling + circumstance, which he could not help considering as an omen, that his + unfortunate house was not entirely deserted by Providence. + </p> + <p> + But the thoughts and occurrences of a prison are too uniform for a + narrative, and we must now convey our readers into a more bustling scene. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0037" id="link2HCH0037"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXVII + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Henceforth 'tis done—Fortune and I are friends; + And I must live, for Buckingham commends. + —POPE. +</pre> + <p> + The spacious mansion of the Duke of Buckingham, with the demesne belonging + to it, originally bore the name of York House and occupied a large portion + of the ground adjacent to the Savoy. + </p> + <p> + This had been laid out by the munificence of his father, the favourite of + Charles the First, in a most splendid manner, so as almost to rival + Whitehall itself. But during the increasing rage for building new streets, + and the creating of almost an additional town, in order to connect London + and Westminster, this ground had become of very great value; and the + second Duke of Buckingham, who was at once fond of scheming, and needy of + money, had agreed to a plan laid before him by some adventurous architect, + for converting the extensive grounds around his palace into those streets, + lanes, and courts, which still perpetuate his name and titles; though + those who live in Buckingham Street, Duke Street, Villiers Street, or in + Of-alley (for even that connecting particle is locally commemorated), + probably think seldom of the memory of the witty, eccentric, and + licentious George Villiers, Duke of Buckingham, whose titles are preserved + in the names of their residence and its neighbourhood. + </p> + <p> + This building-plan the Duke had entered upon with all the eagerness which + he usually attached to novelty. His gardens were destroyed—his + pavilions levelled—his splendid stables demolished—the whole + pomp of his suburban demesne laid waste, cumbered with ruins, and + intersected with the foundations of new buildings and cellars, and the + process of levelling different lines for the intended streets. But the + undertaking, although it proved afterwards both lucrative and successful, + met with a check at the outset, partly from want of the necessary funds, + partly from the impatient and mercurial temper of the Duke, which soon + carried him off in pursuit of some more new object. So that, though much + was demolished, very little, in comparison, was reared up in the stead, + and nothing was completed. The principal part of the ducal mansion still + remained uninjured; but the demesne in which it stood bore a strange + analogy to the irregular mind of its noble owner. Here stood a beautiful + group of exotic trees and shrubs, the remnant of the garden, amid yawning + common-sewers, and heaps of rubbish. In one place an old tower threatened + to fall upon the spectator; and in another he ran the risk of being + swallowed up by a modern vault. Grandeur of conception could be discovered + in the undertaking, but was almost everywhere marred by poverty or + negligence of execution. In short, the whole place was the true emblem of + an understanding and talents run to waste, and become more dangerous than + advantageous to society, by the want of steady principle, and the + improvidence of the possessor. + </p> + <p> + There were men who took a different view of the Duke's purpose in + permitting his mansion to be thus surrounded, and his demesne occupied by + modern buildings which were incomplete, and ancient which were but half + demolished. They alleged, that, engaged as he was in so many mysteries of + love and of politics, and having the character of the most daring and + dangerous intriguer of his time, his Grace found it convenient to surround + himself with this ruinous arena, into which officers of justice could not + penetrate without some difficulty and hazard; and which might afford, upon + occasion, a safe and secret shelter for such tools as were fit for + desperate enterprises, and a private and unobserved mode of access to + those whom he might have any special reason for receiving in secret. + </p> + <p> + Leaving Peveril in the Tower, we must once more convey our readers to the + Levee of the Duke, who, on the morning of Julian's transference to that + fortress, thus addressed his minister-in-chief, and principal attendant: + "I have been so pleased with your conduct in this matter, Jerningham, that + if Old Nick were to arise in our presence, and offer me his best imp as a + familiar in thy room, I would hold it but a poor compliment." + </p> + <p> + "A legion of imps," said Jerningham, bowing, "could not have been more + busy than I in your Grace's service; but if your Grace will permit me to + say so, your whole plan was well-nigh marred by your not returning home + till last night, or rather this morning." + </p> + <p> + "And why, I pray you, sage Master Jerningham," said his Grace, "should I + have returned home an instant sooner than my pleasure and convenience + served?" + </p> + <p> + "Nay, my Lord Duke," replied the attendant, "I know not; only, when you + sent us word by Empson, in Chiffinch's apartment, to command us to make + sure of the girl at any rate, and at all risks, you said you would be here + so soon as you could get freed of the King." + </p> + <p> + "Freed of the King, you rascal! What sort of phrase is that?" demanded the + Duke. + </p> + <p> + "It was Empson who used it, my lord, as coming from your Grace." + </p> + <p> + "There is much very fit for my Grace to say, that misbecomes such mouths + as Empson's or yours to repeat," answered the Duke haughtily, but + instantly resumed his tone of familiarity, for his humour was as + capricious as his pursuits. "But I know what thou wouldst have; first, + your wisdom would know what became of me since thou hadst my commands at + Chiffinch's; and next, your valour would fain sound another flourish of + trumpets on thine own most artificial retreat, leaving thy comrade in the + hands of the Philistines." + </p> + <p> + "May it please your Grace," said Jerningham, "I did but retreat for the + preservation of the baggage." + </p> + <p> + "What! do you play at crambo with me?" said the Duke. "I would have you to + know that the common parish fool should be whipt, were he to attempt to + pass pun or quodlibet as a genuine jest, even amongst ticket-porters and + hackney chairmen." + </p> + <p> + "And yet I have heard your Grace indulge in the <i>jeu de mots</i>," + answered the attendant. + </p> + <p> + "Sirrah Jerningham," answered the patron, "discard they memory, or keep it + under correction, else it will hamper thy rise in the world. Thou mayst + perchance have seen me also have a fancy to play at trap-ball, or to kiss + a serving wench, or to guzzle ale and eat toasted cheese in a porterly + whimsy; but is it fitting thou shouldst remember such follies? No more + on't.—Hark you; how came the long lubberly fool, Jenkins, being a + master of the noble science of defence, to suffer himself to be run + through the body so simply by a rustic swain like this same Peveril?" + </p> + <p> + "Please your Grace, this same Corydon is no such novice. I saw the onset; + and, except in one hand, I never saw a sword managed with such life, + grace, and facility." + </p> + <p> + "Ay, indeed?" said the Duke, taking his own sheathed rapier in his hand, + "I could not have thought that. I am somewhat rusted, and have need of + breathing. Peveril is a name of note. As well go to the Barns-elms, or + behind Montagu House, with him as with another. His father a rumoured + plotter, too. The public would have noted it in me as becoming a zealous + Protestant. Needful I do something to maintain my good name in the city, + to atone for non-attendance on prayer and preaching. But your Laertes is + fast in the Fleet; and I suppose his blundering blockhead of an antagonist + is dead or dying." + </p> + <p> + "Recovering, my lord, on the contrary," replied Jerningham; "the blade + fortunately avoided his vitals." + </p> + <p> + "D—n his vitals!" answered the Duke. "Tell him to postpone his + recovery, or I will put him to death in earnest." + </p> + <p> + "I will caution his surgeon," said Jerningham, "which will answer equally + well." + </p> + <p> + "Do so; and tell him he had better be on his own deathbed as cure his + patient till I send him notice.—That young fellow must be let loose + again at no rate." + </p> + <p> + "There is little danger," said the attendant. "I hear some of the + witnesses have got their net flung over him on account of some matters + down in the north; and that he is to be translated to the Tower for that, + and for some letters of the Countess of Derby, as rumour goes." + </p> + <p> + "To the Tower let him go, and get out as he can," replied the Duke; "and + when you hear he is fast there, let the fencing fellow recover as fast as + the surgeon and he can mutually settle it." + </p> + <p> + The Duke, having said this, took two or three turns in the apartment, and + appeared to be in deep thought. His attendant waited the issue of his + meditations with patience, being well aware that such moods, during which + his mind was strongly directed in one point, were never of so long + duration with his patron as to prove a severe burden to his own patience. + </p> + <p> + Accordingly, after the silence of seven or eight minutes, the Duke broke + through it, taking from the toilette a large silk purse, which seemed full + of gold. "Jerningham," he said, "thou art a faithful fellow, and it would + be sin not to cherish thee. I beat the King at Mall on his bold defiance. + The honour is enough for me; and thou, my boy, shalt have the winnings." + </p> + <p> + Jerningham pocketed the purse with due acknowledgements. + </p> + <p> + "Jerningham," his Grace continued, "I know you blame me for changing my + plans too often; and on my soul I have heard you so learned on the + subject, that I have become of your opinion, and have been vexed at myself + for two or three hours together, for not sticking as constantly to one + object, as doubtless I shall, when age (touching his forehead) shall make + this same weathercock too rusty to turn with the changing breeze. But as + yet, while I have spirit and action, let it whirl like the vane at the + mast-head, which teaches the pilot how to steer his course; and when I + shift mine, think I am bound to follow Fortune, and not to control her." + </p> + <p> + "I can understand nothing from all this, please your Grace," replied + Jerningham, "save that you have been pleased to change some purposed + measures, and think that you have profited by doing so." + </p> + <p> + "You shall judge yourself," replied the Duke. "I have seen the Duchess of + Portsmouth.—You start. It is true, by Heaven! I have seen her, and + from sworn enemies we have become sworn friends. The treaty between such + high and mighty powers had some weighty articles; besides, I had a French + negotiator to deal with; so that you will allow a few hours' absence was + but a necessary interval to make up our matters of diplomacy." + </p> + <p> + "Your Grace astonishes me," said Jerningham. "Christian's plan of + supplanting the great lady is then entirely abandoned? I thought you had + but desired to have the fair successor here, in order to carry it on under + your own management." + </p> + <p> + "I forgot what I meant at the time," said the Duke; "unless that I was + resolved she should not jilt me as she did the good-natured man of + royalty; and so I am still determined, since you put me in mind of the + fair Dowsabelle. But I had a contrite note from the Duchess while we were + at the Mall. I went to see her, and found her a perfect Niobe.—On my + soul, in spite of red eyes and swelled features, and dishevelled hair, + there are, after all, Jerningham, some women who do, as the poets say, + look lovely in affliction. Out came the cause; and with such humility, + such penitence, such throwing herself on my mercy (she the proudest devil, + too, in the whole Court), that I must have had heart of steel to resist it + all. In short, Chiffinch in a drunken fit had played the babbler, and let + young Saville into our intrigue. Saville plays the rogue, and informs the + Duchess by a messenger, who luckily came a little late into the market. + She learned, too, being a very devil for intelligence, that there had been + some jarring between the master and me about this new Phillis; and that I + was most likely to catch the bird,—as any one may see who looks on + us both. It must have been Empson who fluted all this into her Grace's + ear; and thinking she saw how her ladyship and I could hunt in couples, + she entreats me to break Christian's scheme, and keep the wench out of the + King's sight, especially if she were such a rare piece of perfection as + fame has reported her." + </p> + <p> + "And your Grace has promised her your hand to uphold the influence which + you have so often threatened to ruin?" said Jerningham. + </p> + <p> + "Ay, Jerningham; my turn was as much served when she seemed to own herself + in my power, and cry me mercy.—And observe, it is all one to me by + which ladder I climb into the King's cabinet. That of Portsmouth is ready + fixed—better ascend by it than fling it down to put up another—I + hate all unnecessary trouble." + </p> + <p> + "And Christian?" said Jerningham. + </p> + <p> + "May go to the devil for a self-conceited ass. One pleasure of this twist + of intrigue is, to revenge me of that villain, who thought himself so + essential, that, by Heaven! he forced himself on my privacy, and lectured + me like a schoolboy. Hang the cold-blooded hypocritical vermin! If he + mutters, I will have his nose slit as wide as Coventry's.[*]—Hark + ye, is the Colonel come?" + </p> + <p> + "I expect him every moment, your Grace." + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +[*] The ill-usage of Sir John Coventry by some of the Life Guardsmen, + in revenge of something said in Parliament concerning the King's + theatrical amours, gave rise to what was called Coventry's Act, + against cutting and maiming the person. +</pre> + <p> + "Send him up when he arrives," said the Duke.——"Why do you + stand looking at me? What would you have?" + </p> + <p> + "Your Grace's direction respecting the young lady," said Jerningham. + </p> + <p> + "Odd zooks," said the Duke, "I had totally forgotten her.—Is she + very tearful?—Exceedingly afflicted?" + </p> + <p> + "She does not take on so violently as I have seen some do," said + Jerningham; "but for a strong, firm, concentrated indignation, I have seen + none to match her." + </p> + <p> + "Well, we will permit her to cool. I will not face the affliction of a + second fair one immediately. I am tired of snivelling, and swelled eyes, + and blubbered cheeks for some time; and, moreover, must husband my powers + of consolation. Begone, and send the Colonel." + </p> + <p> + "Will your Grace permit me one other question?" demanded his confidant. + </p> + <p> + "Ask what thou wilt, Jerningham, and then begone." + </p> + <p> + "Your Grace has determined to give up Christian," said the attendant. "May + I ask what becomes of the kingdom of Man?" + </p> + <p> + "Forgotten, as I have a Christian soul!" said the Duke; "as much forgotten + as if I had never nourished that scheme of royal ambition.—D—n + it, we must knit up the ravelled skein of that intrigue.—Yet it is + but a miserable rock, not worth the trouble I have been bestowing on it; + and for a kingdom—it has a sound indeed; but, in reality, I might as + well stick a cock-chicken's feather into my hat, and call it a plume. + Besides, now I think upon it, it would scarce be honourable to sweep that + petty royalty out of Derby's possession. I won a thousand pieces of the + young Earl when he was last here, and suffered him to hang about me at + Court. I question if the whole revenue of his kingdom is worth twice as + much. Easily I could win it of him, were he here, with less trouble than + it would cost me to carry on these troublesome intrigues of Christian's." + </p> + <p> + "If I may be permitted to say so, please your Grace," answered Jerningham, + "although your Grace is perhaps somewhat liable to change your mind, no + man in England can afford better reasons for doing so." + </p> + <p> + "I think so myself, Jerningham," said the Duke; "and it may be it is one + reason for my changing. One likes to vindicate his own conduct, and to + find out fine reasons for doing what one has a mind to.—And now, + once again, begone. Or, hark ye—hark ye—I shall need some + loose gold. You may leave the purse I gave you; and I will give you an + order for as much, and two years' interest, on old Jacob Doublefee." + </p> + <p> + "As your Grace pleases," said Jerningham, his whole stock of complaisance + scarcely able to conceal his mortification at exchanging for a distant + order, of a kind which of late had not been very regularly honoured, the + sunny contents of the purse which had actually been in his pocket. + Secretly, but solemnly did he make a vow, that two years' interest alone + should not be the compensation for this involuntary exchange in the form + of his remuneration. + </p> + <p> + As the discontented dependant left the apartment, he met, at the head of + the grand staircase, Christian himself, who, exercising the freedom of an + ancient friend of the house, was making his way, unannounced, to the + Duke's dressing apartment. Jerningham, conjecturing that his visit at this + crisis would be anything but well timed, or well taken, endeavoured to + avert his purpose by asserting that the Duke was indisposed, and in his + bedchamber; and this he said so loud that his master might hear him, and, + if he pleased, realise the apology which he offered in his name, by + retreating into the bedroom as his last sanctuary, and drawing the bolt + against intrusion. + </p> + <p> + But, far from adopting a stratagem to which he had had recourse on former + occasions, in order to avoid those who came upon him, though at an + appointed hour, and upon business of importance, Buckingham called, in a + loud voice, from his dressing apartment, commanding his chamberlain + instantly to introduce his good friend Master Christian, and censuring him + for hesitating for an instant to do so. + </p> + <p> + "Now," thought Jerningham within himself, "if Christian knew the Duke as + well as I do, he would sooner stand the leap of a lion, like the London + 'prentice bold, than venture on my master at this moment, who is even now + in a humour nearly as dangerous as the animal." + </p> + <p> + He then ushered Christian into his master's presence, taking care to post + himself within earshot of the door. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0038" id="link2HCH0038"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXVIII + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "Speak not of niceness, when there's chance of wreck," + The captain said, as ladies writhed their neck + To see the dying dolphin flap the deck: + "If we go down, on us these gentry sup; + We dine upon them, if we haul them up. + Wise men applaud us when we eat the eaters, + As the devil laughs when keen folks cheat the cheaters." + —THE SEA VOYAGE. +</pre> + <p> + There was nothing in Duke's manner towards Christian which could have + conveyed to that latter personage, experienced as he was in the worst + possible ways of the world, that Buckingham would, at that particular + moment, rather have seen the devil than himself; unless it was that + Buckingham's reception of him, being rather extraordinarily courteous + towards so old an acquaintance, might have excited some degree of + suspicion. + </p> + <p> + Having escaped with some difficulty from the vague region of general + compliments, which bears the same relation to that of business that Milton + informs us the <i>Limbo Patrum</i> has to the sensible and material earth, + Christian asked his Grace of Buckingham, with the same blunt plainness + with which he usually veiled a very deep and artificial character, whether + he had lately seen Chiffinch or his helpmate? + </p> + <p> + "Neither of them lately," answered Buckingham. "Have not you waited on + them yourself?—I thought you would have been more anxious about the + great scheme." + </p> + <p> + "I have called once and again," said Christian, "but I can gain no access + to the sight of that important couple. I begin to be afraid they are + paltering with me." + </p> + <p> + "Which, by the welkin and its stars, you would not be slow in avenging, + Master Christian. I know your puritanical principles on that point well," + said the Duke. "Revenge may be well said to be sweet, when so many grave + and wise men are ready to exchange for it all the sugar-plums which + pleasures offer to the poor sinful people of the world, besides the + reversion of those which they talk of expecting in the way of <i>post obit</i>." + </p> + <p> + "You may jest, my lord," said Christian, "but still——" + </p> + <p> + "But still you will be revenged on Chiffinch, and his little commodious + companion. And yet the task may be difficult—Chiffinch has so many + ways of obliging his master—his little woman is such a convenient + pretty sort of a screen, and has such winning little ways of her own, + that, in faith, in your case, I would not meddle with them. What is this + refusing their door, man? We all do it to our best friends now and then, + as well as to duns and dull company." + </p> + <p> + "If your Grace is in a humour of rambling thus wildly in your talk," said + Christian, "you know my old faculty of patience—I can wait till it + be your pleasure to talk more seriously." + </p> + <p> + "Seriously!" said his Grace—"Wherefore not?—I only wait to + know what your serious business may be." + </p> + <p> + "In a word, my lord, from Chiffinch's refusal to see me, and some vain + calls which I have made at your Grace's mansion, I am afraid either that + our plan has miscarried, or that there is some intention to exclude me + from the farther conduct of the matter." Christian pronounced these words + with considerable emphasis. + </p> + <p> + "That were folly as well as treachery," returned the Duke, "to exclude + from the spoil the very engineer who conducted the attack. But hark ye, + Christian—I am sorry to tell bad news without preparation; but as + you insist on knowing the worst, and are not ashamed to suspect your best + friends, out it must come—Your niece left Chiffinch's house the + morning before yesterday." + </p> + <p> + Christian staggered, as if he had received a severe blow; and the blood + ran to his face in such a current of passion, that the Duke concluded he + was struck with an apoplexy. But, exerting the extraordinary command which + he could maintain under the most trying circumstances, he said, with a + voice, the composure of which had an unnatural contrast with the + alteration of his countenance, "Am I to conclude, that in leaving the + protection of the roof in which I placed her, the girl has found shelter + under that of your Grace?" + </p> + <p> + "Sir," replied Buckingham gravely, "the supposition does my gallantry more + credit than it deserves." + </p> + <p> + "Oh, my Lord Duke," answered Christian, "I am not one whom you can impose + on by this species of courtly jargon. I know of what your Grace is + capable; and that to gratify the caprice of a moment you would not + hesitate to disappoint even the schemes at which you yourself have + laboured most busily.—Suppose this jest played off. Take your laugh + at those simple precautions by which I intended to protect your Grace's + interest, as well as that of others. Let us know the extent of your + frolic, and consider how far its consequences can be repaired." + </p> + <p> + "On my word, Christian," said the Duke, laughing, "you are the most + obliging of uncles and of guardians. Let your niece pass through as many + adventures as Boccaccio's bride of the King of Garba, you care not. Pure + or soiled, she will still make the footstool of your fortune." + </p> + <p> + An Indian proverb says, that the dart of contempt will even pierce through + the shell of the tortoise; but this is more peculiarly the case when + conscience tells the subject of the sarcasm that it is justly merited. + Christian, stung with Buckingham's reproach, at once assumed a haughty and + threatening mien, totally inconsistent with that in which sufferance + seemed to be as much his badge as that of Shylock. "You are a foul-mouthed + and most unworthy lord," he said; "and as such I will proclaim you, unless + you make reparation for the injury you have done me." + </p> + <p> + "And what," said the Duke of Buckingham, "shall I proclaim <i>you</i>, + that can give you the least title to notice from such as I am? What name + shall I bestow on the little transaction which has given rise to such + unexpected misunderstanding?" + </p> + <p> + Christian was silent, either from rage or from mental conviction. + </p> + <p> + "Come, come, Christian," said the Duke, smiling, "we know too much of each + other to make a quarrel safe. Hate each other we may—circumvent each + other—it is the way of Courts—but proclaim!—a fico for + the phrase." + </p> + <p> + "I used it not," said Christian, "till your Grace drove me to extremity. + You know, my lord, I have fought both at home and abroad; and you should + not rashly think that I will endure any indignity which blood can wipe + away." + </p> + <p> + "On the contrary," said the Duke, with the same civil and sneering manner, + "I can confidently assert, that the life of half a score of your friends + would seem very light to you, Christian, if their existence interfered, I + do not say with your character, as being a thing of much less consequence, + but with any advantage which their existence might intercept. Fie upon it, + man, we have known each other long. I never thought you a coward; and am + only glad to see I could strike a few sparkles of heat out of your cold + and constant disposition. I will now, if you please, tell you at once the + fate of the young lady, in which I pray you to believe that I am truly + interested." + </p> + <p> + "I hear you, my Lord Duke," said Christian. "The curl of your upper lip, + and your eyebrow, does not escape me. Your Grace knows the French proverb, + 'He laughs best who laughs last.' But I hear you." + </p> + <p> + "Thank Heaven you do," said Buckingham; "for your case requires haste, I + promise you, and involves no laughing matter. Well then, hear a simple + truth, on which (if it became me to offer any pledge for what I assert to + be such) I could pledge life, fortune, and honour. It was the morning + before last, when meeting with the King at Chiffinch's unexpectedly—in + fact I had looked in to fool an hour away, and to learn how your scheme + advanced—I saw a singular scene. Your niece terrified little + Chiffinch—(the hen Chiffinch, I mean)—bid the King defiance to + his teeth, and walked out of the presence triumphantly, under the + guardianship of a young fellow of little mark or likelihood, excepting a + tolerable personal presence, and the advantage of a most unconquerable + impudence. Egad, I can hardly help laughing to think how the King and I + were both baffled; for I will not deny, that I had tried to trifle for a + moment with the fair Indamora. But, egad, the young fellow swooped her off + from under our noses, like my own Drawcansir clearing off the banquet from + the two Kings of Brentford. There was a dignity in the gallant's + swaggering retreat which I must try to teach Mohun;[*] it will suit his + part admirably." + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [*] Then a noted actor. +</pre> + <p> + "This is incomprehensible, my Lord Duke," said Christian, who by this time + had recovered all his usual coolness; "you cannot expect me to believe + this. Who dared be so bold as to carry of my niece in such a manner, and + from so august a presence? And with whom, a stranger as he must have been, + would she, wise and cautious as I know her, have consented to depart in + such a manner?—My lord, I cannot believe this." + </p> + <p> + "One of your priests, my most devoted Christian," replied the Duke, "would + only answer, Die, infidel, in thine unbelief; but I am only a poor + worldling sinner, and I will add what mite of information I can. The young + fellow's name, as I am given to understand, is Julian, son of Sir + Geoffrey, whom men call Peveril of the Peak." + </p> + <p> + "Peveril of the Devil, who hath his cavern there!" said Christian warmly; + "for I know that gallant, and believe him capable of anything bold and + desperate. But how could he intrude himself into the royal presence? + Either Hell aids him, or Heaven looks nearer into mortal dealings than I + have yet believed. If so, may God forgive us, who deemed he thought not on + us at all!" + </p> + <p> + "Amen, most Christian Christian," replied the Duke. "I am glad to see thou + hast yet some touch of grace that leads thee to augur so. But Empson, the + hen Chiffinch, and half-a-dozen more, saw the swain's entrance and + departure. Please examine these witnesses with your own wisdom, if you + think your time may not be better employed in tracing the fugitives. I + believe he gained entrance as one of some dancing or masking party. + Rowley, you know, is accessible to all who will come forth to make him + sport. So in stole this termagant tearing gallant, like Samson among the + Philistines, to pull down our fine scheme about our ears." + </p> + <p> + "I believe you, my lord," said Christian; "I cannot but believe you; and I + forgive you, since it is your nature, for making sport of what is ruin and + destruction. But which way did they take?" + </p> + <p> + "To Derbyshire, I should presume, to seek her father," said the Duke. "She + spoke of going into paternal protection, instead of yours, Master + Christian. Something had chanced at Chiffinch's, to give her cause to + suspect that you had not altogether provided for his daughter in the + manner which her father was likely to approve of." + </p> + <p> + "Now, Heaven be praised," said Christian, "she knows not her father is + come to London! and they must be gone down either to Martindale Castle, or + to Moultrassie Hall; in either case they are in my power—I must + follow them close. I will return instantly to Derbyshire—I am undone + if she meet her father until these errors are amended. Adieu, my lord. I + forgive the part which I fear your Grace must have had in baulking our + enterprise—it is no time for mutual reproaches." + </p> + <p> + "You speak truth, Master Christian," said the Duke, "and I wish you all + success. Can I help you with men, or horses, or money?" + </p> + <p> + "I thank your Grace," said Christian, and hastily left the apartment. + </p> + <p> + The Duke watched his descending footsteps on the staircase, until they + could be heard no longer, and then exclaimed to Jerningham, who entered, "<i>Victoria! + victoria! magna est veritas et prævalebit!</i>—Had I told the + villain a word of a lie, he is so familiar with all the regions of + falsehood—his whole life has been such an absolute imposture, that I + had stood detected in an instant; but I told him truth, and that was the + only means of deceiving him. Victoria! my dear Jerningham, I am prouder of + cheating Christian, than I should have been of circumventing a minister of + state." + </p> + <p> + "Your Grace holds his wisdom very high," said the attendant. + </p> + <p> + "His cunning, at least, I do, which, in Court affairs, often takes the + weather-gage of wisdom,—as in Yarmouth Roads a herring-buss will + baffle a frigate. He shall not return to London if I can help it, until + all these intrigues are over." + </p> + <p> + As his Grace spoke, the Colonel, after whom he had repeatedly made + inquiry, was announced by a gentleman of his household. "He met not + Christian, did he?" said the Duke hastily. + </p> + <p> + "No, my lord," returned the domestic, "the Colonel came by the old garden + staircase." + </p> + <p> + "I judged as much," replied the Duke; "'tis an owl that will not take wing + in daylight, when there is a thicket left to skulk under. Here he comes + from threading lane, vault, and ruinous alley, very near ominous a + creature as the fowl of ill augury which he resembles." + </p> + <p> + The Colonel, to whom no other appellation seemed to be given, than that + which belonged to his military station, now entered the apartment. He was + tall, strongly built, and past the middle period of life, and his + countenance, but for the heavy cloud which dwelt upon it, might have been + pronounced a handsome one. While the Duke spoke to him, either from + humility or some other cause, his large serious eye was cast down upon the + ground; but he raised it when he answered, with a keen look of earnest + observation. His dress was very plain, and more allied to that of the + Puritans than of the Cavaliers of the time; a shadowy black hat, like the + Spanish sombrero; a large black mantle or cloak, and a long rapier, gave + him something the air of a Castilione, to which his gravity and stiffness + of demeanour added considerable strength. + </p> + <p> + "Well, Colonel," said the Duke, "we have been long strangers—how + have matters gone with you?" + </p> + <p> + "As with other men of action in quiet times," answered the colonel, "or as + a good war-caper[*] that lies high and dry in a muddy creek, till seams + and planks are rent and riven." + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + [*] A privateer. +</pre> + <p> + "Well, Colonel," said the Duke, "I have used your valour before now, and I + may again; so that I shall speedily see that the vessel is careened, and + undergoes a thorough repair." + </p> + <p> + "I conjecture, then," said the Colonel, "that your Grace has some voyage + in hand?" + </p> + <p> + "No, but there is one which I want to interrupt," replied the Duke. + </p> + <p> + "Tis but another stave of the same tune.—Well, my lord, I listen," + answered the stranger. + </p> + <p> + "Nay," said the Duke, "it is but a trifling matter after all.—You + know Ned Christian?" + </p> + <p> + "Ay, surely, my lord," replied the Colonel, "we have been long known to + each other." + </p> + <p> + "He is about to go down to Derbyshire to seek a certain niece of his, whom + he will scarcely find there. Now, I trust to your tried friendship to + interrupt his return to London. Go with him, or meet him, cajole him, or + assail him, or do what thou wilt with him—only keep him from London + for a fortnight at least, and then I care little how soon he comes." + </p> + <p> + "For by that time, I suppose," replied the Colonel, "any one may find the + wench that thinks her worth the looking for." + </p> + <p> + "Thou mayst think her worth the looking for thyself, Colonel," rejoined + the Duke; "I promise you she hath many a thousand stitched to her + petticoat; such a wife would save thee from skeldering on the public." + </p> + <p> + "My lord, I sell my blood and my sword, but not my honour," answered the + man sullenly; "if I marry, my bed may be a poor, but it shall be an honest + one." + </p> + <p> + "Then thy wife will be the only honest matter in thy possession, Colonel—at + least since I have known you," replied the Duke. + </p> + <p> + "Why, truly, your Grace may speak your pleasure on that point. It is + chiefly your business which I have done of late; and if it were less + strictly honest than I could have wished, the employer was to blame as + well as the agent. But for marrying a cast-off mistress, the man (saving + your Grace, to whom I am bound) lives not who dares propose it to me." + </p> + <p> + The Duke laughed loudly. "Why, this is mine Ancient Pistol's vein," he + replied. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + ——"Shall I Sir Pandarus of Troy become, + And by my side wear steel?—then Lucifer take all!" +</pre> + <p> + "My breeding is too plain to understand ends of playhouse verse, my lord," + said the Colonel suddenly. "Has your Grace no other service to command + me?" + </p> + <p> + "None—only I am told you have published a Narrative concerning the + Plot." + </p> + <p> + "What should ail me, my lord?" said the Colonel; "I hope I am a witness as + competent as any that has yet appeared?" + </p> + <p> + "Truly, I think so to the full," said the Duke; "and it would have been + hard, when so much profitable mischief was going, if so excellent a + Protestant as yourself had not come in for a share." + </p> + <p> + "I came to take your Grace's commands, not to be the object of your wit," + said the Colonel. + </p> + <p> + "Gallantly spoken, most resolute and most immaculate Colonel! As you are + to be on full pay in my service for a month to come, I pray your + acceptance of this purse, for contingents and equipments, and you shall + have my instructions from time to time." + </p> + <p> + "They shall be punctually obeyed, my lord," said the Colonel; "I know the + duty of a subaltern officer. I wish your Grace a good morning." + </p> + <p> + So saying, he pocketed the purse, without either affecting hesitation, or + expressing gratitude, but merely as a part of a transaction in the regular + way of business, and stalked from the apartment with the same sullen + gravity which marked his entrance. "Now, there goes a scoundrel after my + own heart," said the Duke; "a robber from his cradle, a murderer since he + could hold a knife, a profound hypocrite in religion, and a worse and + deeper hypocrite in honour,—would sell his soul to the devil to + accomplish any villainy, and would cut the throat of his brother, did he + dare to give the villainy he had so acted its right name.—Now, why + stand you amazed, good Master Jerningham, and look on me as you would on + some monster of Ind, when you had paid your shilling to see it, and were + staring out your pennyworth with your eyes as round as a pair of + spectacles? Wink, man, and save them, and then let thy tongue untie the + mystery." + </p> + <p> + "On my word, my Lord Duke," answered Jerningham, "since I am compelled to + speak, I can only say, that the longer I live with your Grace, I am the + more at a loss to fathom your motives of action. Others lay plans, either + to attain profit or pleasure by their execution; but your Grace's delight + is to counteract your own schemes, when in the very act of performance; + like a child—forgive me—that breaks its favourite toy, or a + man who should set fire to the house he has half built." + </p> + <p> + "And why not, if he wanted to warm his hands at the blaze?" said the Duke. + </p> + <p> + "Ay, my lord," replied his dependent; "but what if, in doing so, he should + burn his fingers?—My lord, it is one of your noblest qualities, that + you will sometimes listen to the truth without taking offence; but were it + otherwise, I could not, at this moment, help speaking out at every risk." + </p> + <p> + "Well, say on, I can bear it," said the Duke, throwing himself into an + easy-chair, and using his toothpick with graceful indifference and + equanimity; "I love to hear what such potsherds as thou art, think of the + proceeding of us who are of the pure porcelain clay of the earth." + </p> + <p> + "In the name of Heaven, my lord, let me then ask you," said Jerningham, + "what merit you claim, or what advantage you expect, from having embroiled + everything in which you are concerned to a degree which equals the chaos + of the blind old Roundhead's poem which your Grace is so fond of? To begin + with the King. In spite of good-humour, he will be incensed at your + repeated rivalry." + </p> + <p> + "His Majesty defied me to it." + </p> + <p> + "You have lost all hopes of the Isle, by quarrelling with Christian." + </p> + <p> + "I have ceased to care a farthing about it," replied the Duke. + </p> + <p> + "In Christian himself, whom you have insulted, and to whose family you + intend dishonour, you have lost a sagacious, artful, and cool-headed + instrument and adherent," said the monitor. + </p> + <p> + "Poor Jerningham!" answered the Duke; "Christian would say as much for + thee, I doubt not, wert thou discarded tomorrow. It is the common error of + such tools as you and he to think themselves indispensable. As to his + family, what was never honourable cannot be dishonoured by any connection + with my house." + </p> + <p> + "I say nothing of Chiffinch," said Jerningham, "offended as he will be + when he learns why, and by whom, his scheme has been ruined, and the lady + spirited away—He and his wife, I say nothing of them." + </p> + <p> + "You need not," said the Duke; "for were they even fit persons to speak to + me about, the Duchess of Portsmouth has bargained for their disgrace." + </p> + <p> + "Then this bloodhound of a Colonel, as he calls himself, your Grace cannot + even lay <i>him</i> on a quest which is to do you service, but you must do + him such indignity at the same time, as he will not fail to remember, and + be sure to fly at your throat should he ever have an opportunity of + turning on you." + </p> + <p> + "I will take care he has none," said the Duke; "and yours, Jerningham, is + a low-lived apprehension. Beat your spaniel heartily if you would have him + under command. Ever let your agents see you know what they are, and prize + them accordingly. A rogue, who must needs be treated as a man of honour, + is apt to get above his work. Enough, therefore, of your advice and + censure, Jerningham; we differ in every particular. Were we both + engineers, you would spend your life in watching some old woman's wheel, + which spins flax by the ounce; I must be in the midst of the most varied + and counteracting machinery, regulating checks and counter-checks, + balancing weights, proving springs and wheels, directing and controlling a + hundred combined powers." + </p> + <p> + "And your fortune, in the meanwhile?" said Jerningham; "pardon this last + hint, my lord." + </p> + <p> + "My fortune," said the Duke, "is too vast to be hurt by a petty wound; and + I have, as thou knowest, a thousand salves in store for the scratches and + scars which it sometimes receives in greasing my machinery." + </p> + <p> + "Your Grace does not mean Dr. Wilderhead's powder of projection?" + </p> + <p> + "Pshaw! he is a quacksalver, and mountebank, and beggar." + </p> + <p> + "Or Solicitor Drowndland's plan for draining the fens?" + </p> + <p> + "He is a cheat,—<i>videlicet</i>, an attorney." + </p> + <p> + "Or the Laird of Lackpelf's sale of Highland woods?" + </p> + <p> + "He is a Scotsman," said the Duke,—"<i>videlicet</i>, both cheat and + beggar." + </p> + <p> + "These streets here, upon the site of your noble mansion-house?" said + Jerningham. + </p> + <p> + "The architect's a bite, and the plan's a bubble. I am sick of the sight + of this rubbish, and I will soon replace our old alcoves, alleys, and + flower-pots by an Italian garden and a new palace." + </p> + <p> + "That, my lord, would be to waste, not to improve your fortune," said his + domestic. + </p> + <p> + "Clodpate, and muddy spirit that thou art, thou hast forgot the most + hopeful scheme of all—the South Sea Fisheries—their stock is + up 50 per cent. already. Post down to the Alley, and tell old Mansses to + buy £20,000 for me.—Forgive me, Plutus, I forgot to lay my sacrifice + on thy shrine, and yet expected thy favours!—Fly post-haste, + Jerningham—for thy life, for thy life, for thy life!"[*] + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +[*] Stock-jobbing, as it is called, that is, dealing in shares of + monopolies, patent, and joint-stock companies of every + description, was at least as common in Charles II.'s time as our + own; and as the exercise of ingenuity in this way promised a road + to wealth without the necessity of industry, it was then much + pursued by dissolute courtiers. +</pre> + <p> + With hands and eyes uplifted, Jerningham left the apartment; and the Duke, + without thinking a moment farther on old or new intrigues—on the + friendship he had formed, or the enmity he had provoked—on the + beauty whom he had carried off from her natural protectors, as well as + from her lover—or on the monarch against whom he had placed himself + in rivalship,—sat down to calculate chances with all the zeal of + Demoivre, tired of the drudgery in half-an-hour, and refused to see the + zealous agent whom he had employed in the city, because he was busily + engaged in writing a new lampoon. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0039" id="link2HCH0039"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXIX + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Ah! changeful head, and fickle heart! + —PROGRESS OF DISCONTENT. +</pre> + <p> + No event is more ordinary in narratives of this nature, than the abduction + of the female on whose fate the interest is supposed to turn; but that of + Alice Bridgenorth was thus far particular, that she was spirited away by + the Duke of Buckingham, more in contradiction than in the rivalry of + passion; and that, as he made his first addresses to her at Chiffinch's, + rather in the spirit of rivalry to this Sovereign, than from any strong + impression which her beauty had made on his affections, so he had formed + the sudden plan of spiriting her away by means of his dependents, rather + to perplex Christian, the King, Chiffinch, and all concerned, than because + he had any particular desire for her society at his own mansion. Indeed, + so far was this from being the case, that his Grace was rather surprised + than delighted with the success of the enterprise which had made her an + inmate there, although it is probable he might have thrown himself into an + uncontrollable passion, had he learned its miscarriage instead of its + success. + </p> + <p> + Twenty-four hours had passed over since he had returned to his own roof, + before, notwithstanding sundry hints from Jerningham, he could even + determine on the exertion necessary to pay his fair captive a visit; and + then it was with the internal reluctance of one who can only be stirred + from indolence by novelty. + </p> + <p> + "I wonder what made me plague myself about this wench," said he, "and doom + myself to encounter all the hysterical rhapsodies of a country Phillis, + with her head stuffed with her grandmother's lessons about virtue and the + Bible-book, when the finest and best-bred women in town may be had upon + more easy terms. It is a pity one cannot mount the victor's car of triumph + without having a victory to boast of; yet, faith, it is what most of our + modern gallants do, though it would not become Buckingham.—Well, I + must see her," he concluded, "though it were but to rid the house of her. + The Portsmouth will not hear of her being set at liberty near Charles, so + much is she afraid of a new fair seducing the old sinner from his + allegiance. So how the girl is to be disposed of—for I shall have + little fancy to keep her here, and she is too wealthy to be sent down to + Cliefden as a housekeeper—is a matter to be thought on." + </p> + <p> + He then called for such a dress as might set off his natural good mien—a + compliment which he considered as due to his own merit; for as to anything + farther, he went to pay his respects to his fair prisoner with almost as + little zeal in the cause, as a gallant to fight a duel in which he has no + warmer interest than the maintenance of his reputation as man of honour. + </p> + <p> + The set of apartments consecrated to the use of those favourites who + occasionally made Buckingham's mansion their place of abode, and who were, + so far as liberty was concerned, often required to observe the regulations + of a convent, were separated from the rest of the Duke's extensive + mansion. He lived in the age when what was called gallantry warranted the + most atrocious actions of deceit and violence; as may be best illustrated + by the catastrophe of an unfortunate actress, whose beauty attracted the + attention of the last De Vere, Earl of Oxford. While her virtue defied his + seductions, he ruined her under colour of a mock marriage, and was + rewarded for a success which occasioned the death of his victim, by the + general applause of the men of wit and gallantry who filled the + drawing-room of Charles. + </p> + <p> + Buckingham had made provision in the interior of his ducal mansion for + exploits of a similar nature; and the set of apartments which he now + visited were alternately used to confine the reluctant, and to accommodate + the willing. + </p> + <p> + Being now destined for the former purpose, the key was delivered to the + Duke by a hooded and spectacled old lady, who sat reading a devout book in + the outer hall which divided these apartments (usually called the Nunnery) + from the rest of the house. This experienced dowager acted as mistress of + the ceremonies on such occasions, and was the trusty depositary of more + intrigues than were known to any dozen of her worshipful calling besides. + </p> + <p> + "As sweet a linnet," she said, as she undid the outward door, "as ever + sung in a cage." + </p> + <p> + "I was afraid she might have been more for moping than for singing, + Dowlas," said the Duke. + </p> + <p> + "Till yesterday she was so, please your Grace," answered Dowlas; "or, to + speak sooth, till early this morning, we heard of nothing but Lachrymæ. + But the air of your noble Grace's house is favourable to singing-birds; + and to-day matters have been a-much mended." + </p> + <p> + "Tis sudden, dame," said the Duke; "and 'tis something strange, + considering that I have never visited her, that the pretty trembler should + have been so soon reconciled to her fate." + </p> + <p> + "Ah, your Grace has such magic, that it communicates itself to your very + walls; as wholesome Scripture says, Exodus, first and seventh, 'It + cleaveth to the walls and the doorposts.'" + </p> + <p> + "You are too partial, Dame Dowlas," said the Duke of Buckingham. + </p> + <p> + "Not a word but truth," said the dame; "and I wish I may be an outcast + from the fold of the lambs, but I think this damsel's very frame has + changed since she was under your Grace's roof. Methinks she hath a lighter + form, a finer step, a more displayed ankle—I cannot tell, but I + think there is a change. But, lack-a-day, your Grace knows I am as old as + I am trusty, and that my eyes wax something uncertain." + </p> + <p> + "Especially when you wash them with a cup of canary, Dame Dowlas," + answered the Duke, who was aware that temperance was not amongst the + cardinal virtues which were most familiar to the old lady's practice. + </p> + <p> + "Was it canary, your Grace said?—Was it indeed with canary, that + your Grace should have supposed me to have washed my eyes?" said the + offended matron. "I am sorry that your Grace should know me no better." + </p> + <p> + "I crave your pardon, dame," said the Duke, shaking aside, fastidiously, + the grasp which, in the earnestness of her exculpation, Madam Dowlas had + clutched upon his sleeve. "I crave your pardon. Your nearer approach has + convinced me of my erroneous imputation—I should have said nantz—not + canary." + </p> + <p> + So saying, he walked forward into the inner apartments, which were fitted + up with an air of voluptuous magnificence. + </p> + <p> + "The dame said true, however," said the proud deviser and proprietor of + the splendid mansion—"A country Phillis might well reconcile herself + to such a prison as this, even without a skilful bird-fancier to touch a + bird-call. But I wonder where she can be, this rural Phidele. Is it + possible she can have retreated, like a despairing commandant, into her + bedchamber, the very citadel of the place, without even an attempt to + defend the outworks?" + </p> + <p> + As he made this reflection, he passed through an antechamber and little + eating parlour, exquisitely furnished, and hung with excellent paintings + of the Venetian school. + </p> + <p> + Beyond these lay a withdrawing-room, fitted up in a style of still more + studied elegance. The windows were darkened with painted glass, of such a + deep and rich colour, as made the midday beams, which found their way into + the apartment, imitate the rich colours of sunset; and, in the celebrated + expression of the poet, "taught light to counterfeit a gloom." + </p> + <p> + Buckingham's feelings and taste had been too much, and too often, and too + readily gratified, to permit him, in the general case, to be easily + accessible, even to those pleasures which it had been the business of his + life to pursue. The hackneyed voluptuary is like the jaded epicure, the + mere listlessness of whose appetite becomes at length a sufficient penalty + for having made it the principal object of his enjoyment and cultivation. + Yet novelty has always some charms, and uncertainty has more. + </p> + <p> + The doubt how he was to be received—the change of mood which his + prisoner was said to have evinced—the curiosity to know how such a + creature as Alice Bridgenorth had been described, was likely to bear + herself under the circumstances in which she was so unexpectedly placed, + had upon Buckingham the effect of exciting unusual interest. On his own + part, he had none of those feelings of anxiety with which a man, even of + the most vulgar mind, comes to the presence of the female whom he wishes + to please, far less the more refined sentiments of love, respect, desire, + and awe, with which the more refined lover approaches the beloved object. + He had been, to use an expressive French phrase, too completely <i>blasé</i> + even from his earliest youth, to permit him now to experience the animal + eagerness of the one, far less the more sentimental pleasure of the other. + It is no small aggravation of this jaded and uncomfortable state of mind, + that the voluptuary cannot renounce the pursuits with which he is + satiated, but must continue, for his character's sake, or from the mere + force of habit, to take all the toil, fatigue, and danger of the chase, + while he has so little real interest in the termination. + </p> + <p> + Buckingham, therefore, felt it due to his reputation as a successful hero + of intrigue, to pay his addresses to Alice Bridgenorth with dissembled + eagerness; and, as he opened the door of the inner apartment, he paused to + consider, whether the tone of gallantry, or that of passion, was fittest + to use on the occasion. This delay enabled him to hear a few notes of a + lute touched with exquisite skill, and accompanied by the still sweeter + strains of a female voice, which, without executing any complete melody, + seemed to sport itself in rivalship of the silver sound of the instrument. + </p> + <p> + "A creature so well educated," said the Duke, "with the sense she is said + to possess, would, rustic as she is, laugh at the assumed rants of + Oroondates. It is the vein of Dorimont—once, Buckingham, thine own—that + must here do the feat, besides that the part is easier." + </p> + <p> + So thinking, he entered the room with that easy grace which characterised + the gay courtiers among whom he flourished, and approached the fair + tenant, whom he found seated near a table covered with books and music, + and having on her left hand the large half-open casement, dim with stained + glass, admitting only a doubtful light into this lordly retiring-room, + which, hung with the richest tapestry of the Gobelines, and ornamented + with piles if china and splendid mirrors, seemed like a bower built for a + prince to receive his bride. + </p> + <p> + The splendid dress of the inmate corresponded with the taste of the + apartment which she occupied and partook of the Oriental costume which the + much-admired Roxalana had the brought into fashion. A slender foot and + ankle, which escaped from the wide trowser of richly ornamented and + embroidered blue satin, was the only part of her person distinctly seen; + the rest was enveloped, from head to foot, in a long veil of silver gauze, + which, like a feathery and light mist on a beautiful landscape, suffered + you to perceive that what it concealed was rarely lovely, yet induced the + imagination even to enhance the charms it shaded. Such part of the dress + as could be discovered was, like the veil and the trowsers, in the + Oriental taste; a rich turban, and splendid caftan, were rather indicated + than distinguished through the folds of the former. The whole attire + argued at least coquetry on the part of the fair one, who must have + expected, from her situation, a visitor of some pretension; and induced + Buckingham to smile internally at Christian's account of the extreme + simplicity and purity of his niece. + </p> + <p> + He approached the lady <i>en cavalier</i>, and addressed her with the air + of being conscious, while he acknowledged his offences, that his + condescending to do so formed a sufficient apology for them. "Fair + Mistress Alice," he said, "I am sensible how deeply I ought to sue for + pardon for the mistaken zeal of my servants, who, seeing you deserted and + exposed without protection during an unlucky affray, took it upon them to + bring you under the roof of one who would expose his life rather than + suffer you to sustain a moment's anxiety. Was it my fault that those + around me should have judged it necessary to interfere for your + preservation; or that, aware of the interest I must take in you, they have + detained you till I could myself, in personal attendance, receive your + commands?" + </p> + <p> + "That attendance has not been speedily rendered, my lord," answered the + lady. "I have been a prisoner for two days—neglected, and left to + the charge of menials." + </p> + <p> + "How say you, lady?—Neglected!" exclaimed the Duke. "By Heaven, if + the best in my household has failed in his duty, I will discard him on the + instant!" + </p> + <p> + "I complain of no lack of courtesy from your servants, my lord," she + replied; "but methinks it had been but complaisant in the Duke himself to + explain to me earlier wherefore he has had the boldness to detain me as a + state prisoner." + </p> + <p> + "And can the divine Alice doubt," said Buckingham, "that, had time and + space, those cruel enemies to the flight of passion, given permission, the + instant in which you crossed your vassal's threshold had seen its devoted + master at your feet, who hath thought, since he saw you, of nothing but + the charms which that fatal morning placed before him at Chiffinch's?" + </p> + <p> + "I understand, then, my lord," said the lady, "that you have been absent, + and have had no part in the restraint which has been exercised upon me?" + </p> + <p> + "Absent on the King's command, lady, and employed in the discharge of his + duty," answered Buckingham without hesitation. "What could I do?—The + moment you left Chiffinch's, his Majesty commanded me to the saddle in + such haste, that I had no time to change my satin buskins for + riding-boots.[*] If my absence has occasioned you a moment of + inconvenience, blame the inconsiderate zeal of those who, seeing me depart + from London, half distracted at my separation from you, were willing to + contribute their unmannered, though well-meant exertions, to preserve + their master from despair, by retaining the fair Alice within his reach. + To whom, indeed, could they have restored you? He whom you selected as + your champion is in prison, or fled—your father absent from town—your + uncle in the north. To Chiffinch's house you had expressed your + well-founded aversion; and what fitter asylum remained than that of your + devoted slave, where you must ever reign a queen?" + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +[*] This case is not without precedent. Among the jealousies and fears + expressed by the Long Parliament, they insisted much upon an agent + for the King departing for the continent so abruptly, that he had + not time to change his court dress—white buskins, to wit, and + black silk pantaloons—for an equipment more suitable to travel + with. +</pre> + <p> + "An imprisoned one," said the lady. "I desire not royalty." + </p> + <p> + "Alas! how wilfully you misconstrue me!" said the Duke, kneeling on one + knee; "and what right can you have to complain of a few hours' gentle + restraint—you, who destine so many to hopeless captivity? Be + merciful for once, and withdraw that envious veil; for the divinities are + ever most cruel when they deliver their oracles from such clouded + recesses. Suffer at least my rash hand——" + </p> + <p> + "I will save your Grace that unworthy trouble," said the lady haughtily; + and rising up, she flung back over her shoulders the veil which shrouded + her, saying, at the same time, "Look on me, my Lord Duke, and see if these + be indeed the charms which have made on your Grace an impression so + powerful." + </p> + <p> + Buckingham did look; and the effect produced on him by surprise was so + strong, that he rose hastily from his knee, and remained for a few seconds + as if he had been petrified. The figure that stood before him had neither + the height nor the rich shape of Alice Bridgenorth; and, though perfectly + well made, was so slightly formed, as to seem almost infantine. Her dress + was three or four short vests of embroidered satin, disposed one over the + other, of different colours, or rather different shades of similar + colours; for strong contrast was carefully avoided. These opened in front, + so as to show part of the throat and neck, partially obscured by an inner + covering of the finest lace; over the uppermost vest was worn a sort of + mantle, or coat of rich fur. A small but magnificent turban was carelessly + placed on her head, from under which flowed a profusion of coal-black + tresses, which Cleopatra might have envied. The taste and splendour of the + Eastern dress corresponded with the complexion of the lady's face, which + was brunette, of a shade so dark as might almost have served an Indian. + </p> + <p> + Amidst a set of features, in which rapid and keen expression made amends + for the want of regular beauty, the essential points of eyes as bright as + diamonds, and teeth as white as pearls, did not escape the Duke of + Buckingham, a professed connoisseur in female charms. In a word, the + fanciful and singular female who thus unexpectedly produced herself before + him, had one of those faces which are never seen without making an + impression; which, when removed, are long after remembered; and for which, + in our idleness, we are tempted to invent a hundred histories, that we may + please our fancy by supposing the features under the influence of + different kinds of emotion. Every one must have in recollection + countenances of this kind, which, from a captivating and stimulating + originality of expression, abide longer in the memory, and are more + seductive to the imagination, than ever regular beauty. + </p> + <p> + "My Lord Duke," said the lady, "it seems the lifting of my veil has done + the work of magic upon your Grace. Alas, for the captive princess, whose + nod was to command a vassal so costly as your Grace! She runs, methinks, + no slight chance of being turned out of doors, like a second Cinderella, + to seek her fortune among lackeys and lightermen." + </p> + <p> + "I am astonished!" said the Duke. "That villain, Jerningham—I will + have the scoundrel's blood!" + </p> + <p> + "Nay, never abuse Jerningham for the matter," said the Unknown; "but + lament your own unhappy engagements. While you, my Lord Duke, were posting + northward, in white satin buskins, to toil in the King's affairs, the + right and lawful princess sat weeping in sables in the uncheered solitude + to which your absence condemned her. Two days she was disconsolate in + vain; on the third came an African enchantress to change the scene for + her, and the person for your Grace. Methinks, my lord, this adventure will + tell but ill, when some faithful squire shall recount or record the + gallant adventures of the second Duke of Buckingham." + </p> + <p> + "Fairly bit and bantered to boot," said the Duke—"the monkey has a + turn for satire, too, by all that is <i>piquante</i>.—Hark ye, fair + Princess, how dared you adventure on such a trick as you have been + accomplice to?" + </p> + <p> + "Dare, my lord," answered the stranger; "put the question to others, not + to one who fears nothing." + </p> + <p> + "By my faith, I believe so; for thy front is bronzed by nature.—Hark + ye, once more, mistress—What is your name and condition?" + </p> + <p> + "My condition I have told you—I am a Mauritanian sorceress by + profession, and my name is Zarah," replied the Eastern maiden. + </p> + <p> + "But methinks that face, shape, and eyes"—said the Duke—"when + didst thou pass for a dancing fairy?—Some such imp thou wert not + many days since." + </p> + <p> + "My sister you may have seen—my twin sister; but not me, my lord," + answered Zarah. + </p> + <p> + "Indeed," said the Duke, "that duplicate of thine, if it was not thy very + self, was possessed with a dumb spirit, as thou with a talking one. I am + still in the mind that you are the same; and that Satan, always so + powerful with your sex, had art enough on our former meeting, to make thee + hold thy tongue." + </p> + <p> + "Believe what you will of it, my lord," replied Zarah, "it cannot change + the truth.—And now, my lord, I bid you farewell. Have you any + commands to Mauritania?" + </p> + <p> + "Tarry a little, my Princess," said the Duke; "and remember, that you have + voluntarily entered yourself as pledge for another; and are justly + subjected to any penalty which it is my pleasure to exact. None must brave + Buckingham with impunity." + </p> + <p> + "I am in no hurry to depart, if your Grace hath any commands for me." + </p> + <p> + "What! are you neither afraid of my resentment, nor of my love, fair + Zarah?" said the Duke. + </p> + <p> + "Of neither, by this glove," answered the lady. "Your resentment must be a + pretty passion indeed, if it could stoop to such a helpless object as I + am; and for your love—good lack! good lack!" + </p> + <p> + "And why good lack with such a tone of contempt, lady?" said the Duke, + piqued in spite of himself. "Think you Buckingham cannot love, or has + never been beloved in return?" + </p> + <p> + "He may have thought himself beloved," said the maiden; "but by what + slight creatures!—things whose heads could be rendered giddy by a + playhouse rant—whose brains were only filled with red-heeled shoes + and satin buskins—and who run altogether mad on the argument of a + George and a star." + </p> + <p> + "And are there no such frail fair ones in your climate, most scornful + Princess?" said the Duke. + </p> + <p> + "There are," said the lady; "but men rate them as parrots and monkeys—things + without either sense or soul, head or heart. The nearness we bear to the + sun has purified, while it strengthens, our passions. The icicles of your + frozen climate shall as soon hammer hot bars into ploughshares, as shall + the foppery and folly of your pretended gallantry make an instant's + impression on a breast like mine." + </p> + <p> + "You speak like one who knows what passion is," said the Duke. "Sit down, + fair lady, and grieve not that I detain you. Who can consent to part with + a tongue of so much melody, or an eye of such expressive eloquence!—You + have known then what it is to love?" + </p> + <p> + "I know—no matter if by experience, or through the report of others—but + I do know, that to love, as I would love, would be to yield not an iota to + avarice, not one inch to vanity, not to sacrifice the slightest feeling to + interest or to ambition; but to give up all to fidelity of heart and + reciprocal affection." + </p> + <p> + "And how many women, think you, are capable of feeling such disinterested + passion?" + </p> + <p> + "More, by thousands, than there are men who merit it," answered Zarah. + "Alas! how often do you see the female, pale, and wretched, and degraded, + still following with patient constancy the footsteps of some predominating + tyrant, and submitting to all his injustice with the endurance of a + faithful and misused spaniel, which prizes a look from his master, though + the surliest groom that ever disgraced humanity, more than all the + pleasure which the world besides can furnish him? Think what such would be + to one who merited and repaid her devotion." + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps the very reverse," said the Duke; "and for your simile, I can see + little resemblance. I cannot charge my spaniel with any perfidy; but for + my mistresses—to confess truth, I must always be in a cursed hurry + if I would have the credit of changing them before they leave me." + </p> + <p> + "And they serve you but rightly, my lord," answered the lady; "for what + are you?—Nay, frown not; for you must hear the truth for once. + Nature has done its part, and made a fair outside, and courtly education + hath added its share. You are noble, it is the accident of birth—handsome, + it is the caprice of Nature—generous, because to give is more easy + than to refuse—well-apparelled, it is to the credit of your tailor—well-natured + in the main, because you have youth and health—brave, because to be + otherwise were to be degraded—and witty, because you cannot help + it." + </p> + <p> + The Duke darted a glance on one of the large mirrors. "Noble, and + handsome, and court-like, generous, well-attired, good-humoured, brave, + and witty!—You allow me more, madam, than I have the slightest + pretension to, and surely enough to make my way, at some point at least, + to female favour." + </p> + <p> + "I have neither allowed you a heart nor a head," said Zarah calmly.—"Nay, + never redden as if you would fly at me. I say not but nature may have + given you both; but folly has confounded the one, and selfishness + perverted the other. The man whom I call deserving the name is one whose + thoughts and exertions are for others, rather than himself,—whose + high purpose is adopted on just principles, and never abandoned while + heaven or earth affords means of accomplishing it. He is one who will + neither seek an indirect advantage by a specious road, nor take an evil + path to gain a real good purpose. Such a man were one for whom a woman's + heart should beat constant while he breathes, and break when he dies." + </p> + <p> + She spoke with so much energy that the water sparkled in her eyes, and her + cheek coloured with the vehemence of her feelings. + </p> + <p> + "You speak," said the Duke, "as if you had yourself a heart which could + pay the full tribute to the merit which you describe so warmly." + </p> + <p> + "And have I not?" said she, laying her hand on her bosom. "Here beats one + that would bear me out in what I have said, whether in life or in death." + </p> + <p> + "Were it in my power," said the Duke, who began to get farther interested + in his visitor than he could at first have thought possible—"Were it + in my power to deserve such faithful attachment, methinks it should be my + care to requite it." + </p> + <p> + "Your wealth, your titles, your reputation as a gallant—all you + possess, were too little to merit such sincere affection." + </p> + <p> + "Come, fair lady," said the Duke, a good deal piqued, "do not be quite so + disdainful. Bethink you, that if your love be as pure as coined gold, + still a poor fellow like myself may offer you an equivalent in silver—The + quantity of my affection must make up for its quality." + </p> + <p> + "But I am not carrying my affection to market, my lord; and therefore I + need none of the base coin you offer in change for it." + </p> + <p> + "How do I know that, my fairest?" said the Duke. "This is the realm of + Paphos—You have invaded it, with what purpose you best know; but I + think with none consistent with your present assumption of cruelty. Come, + come—eyes that are so intelligent can laugh with delight, as well as + gleam with scorn and anger. You are here a waif on Cupid's manor, and I + must seize on you in name of the deity." + </p> + <p> + "Do not think of touching me, my lord," said the lady. "Approach me not, + if you would hope to learn the purpose of my being here. Your Grace may + suppose yourself a Solomon if you please, but I am no travelling princess, + come from distant climes, either to flatter your pride, or wonder at your + glory." + </p> + <p> + "A defiance, by Jupiter!" said the Duke. + </p> + <p> + "You mistake the signal," said the 'dark ladye'; "I came not here without + taking sufficient precautions for my retreat." + </p> + <p> + "You mouth it bravely," said the Duke; "but never fortress so boasted its + resources but the garrison had some thoughts of surrender. Thus I open the + first parallel." + </p> + <p> + They had been hitherto divided from each other by a long narrow table, + which, placed in the recess of the large casement we have mentioned, had + formed a sort of barrier on the lady's side, against the adventurous + gallant. The Duke went hastily to remove it as he spoke; but, attentive to + all his motions, his visitor instantly darted through the half-open + window. Buckingham uttered a cry of horror and surprise, having no doubt, + at first, that she had precipitated herself from a height of at least + fourteen feet; for so far the window was distant from the ground. But when + he sprung to the spot, he perceived, to his astonishment, that she had + effected her descent with equal agility and safety. + </p> + <p> + The outside of this stately mansion was decorated with a quantity of + carving, in the mixed state, betwixt the Gothic and Grecian styles, which + marks the age of Elizabeth and her successor; and though the feat seemed a + surprising one, the projections of these ornaments were sufficient to + afford footing to a creature so light and active, even in her hasty + descent. + </p> + <p> + Inflamed alike by mortification and curiosity, Buckingham at first + entertained some thought of following her by the same dangerous route, and + had actually got upon the sill of the window for that purpose; and was + contemplating what might be his next safe movement, when, from a + neighbouring thicket of shrubs, amongst which his visitor had disappeared, + he heard her chant a verse of a comic song, then much in fashion, + concerning a despairing lover who had recourse to a precipice— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "But when he came near, + Beholding how steep + The sides did appear, + And the bottom how deep; + Though his suit was rejected, + He sadly reflected, + That a lover forsaken + A new love may get; + But a neck that's once broken + Can never be set." +</pre> + <p> + The Duke could not help laughing, though much against his will, at the + resemblance which the verses bore to his own absurd situation, and, + stepping back into the apartment, desisted from an attempt which might + have proved dangerous as well as ridiculous. He called his attendants, and + contented himself with watching the little thicket, unwilling to think + that a female, who had thrown herself in a great measure into his way, + meant absolutely to mortify him by a retreat. + </p> + <p> + That question was determined in an instant. A form, wrapped in a mantle, + with a slouched hat and shadowy plume, issued from the bushes, and was + lost in a moment amongst the ruins of ancient and of modern buildings, + with which, as we have already stated, the demesne formerly termed York + House, was now encumbered in all directions. + </p> + <p> + The Duke's servants, who had obeyed his impatient summons, were hastily + directed to search for this tantalising siren in every direction. Their + master, in the meantime, eager and vehement in every new pursuit, but + especially when his vanity was piqued, encouraged their diligence by + bribes, and threats, and commands. All was in vain. They found nothing of + the Mauritanian Princess, as she called herself, but the turban and the + veil; both of which she had left in the thicket, together with her satin + slippers; which articles, doubtless, she had thrown aside as she exchanged + them for others less remarkable. + </p> + <p> + Finding all his search in vain, the Duke of Buckingham, after the example + of spoiled children of all ages and stations, gave a loose to the frantic + vehemence of passion; and fiercely he swore vengeance on his late visitor, + whom he termed by a thousand opprobrious epithets, of which the elegant + phrase "Jilt" was most frequently repeated. + </p> + <p> + Even Jerningham, who knew the depths and the shallows of his master's + mood, and was bold to fathom them at almost every state of his passions, + kept out of his way on the present occasion; and, cabineted with the pious + old housekeeper, declared to her, over a bottle of ratafia, that, in his + apprehension, if his Grace did not learn to put some control on his + temper, chains, darkness, straw, and Bedlam, would be the final doom of + the gifted and admired Duke of Buckingham. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0040" id="link2HCH0040"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XL + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + ——Contentious fierce, + Ardent, and dire, spring from no petty cause. + —ALBION. +</pre> + <p> + The quarrels between man and wife are proverbial; but let not these honest + folks think that connections of a less permanent nature are free from + similar jars. The frolic of the Duke of Buckingham, and the subsequent + escape of Alice Bridgenorth, had kindled fierce dissension in Chiffinch's + family, when, on his arrival in town, he learned these two stunning + events: "I tell you," he said to his obliging helpmate, who seemed but + little moved by all that he could say on the subject, "that your d—d + carelessness has ruined the work of years." + </p> + <p> + "I think it is the twentieth time you have said so," replied the dame; + "and without such frequent assurance, I was quite ready to believe that a + very trifling matter would overset any scheme of yours, however long + thought of." + </p> + <p> + "How on earth could you have the folly to let the Duke into the house when + you expected the King?" said the irritated courtier. + </p> + <p> + "Lord, Chiffinch," answered the lady, "ought not you to ask the porter + rather than me, that sort of question?—I was putting on my cap to + receive his Majesty." + </p> + <p> + "With the address of a madge-howlet," said Chiffinch, "and in the + meanwhile you gave the cat the cream to keep." + </p> + <p> + "Indeed, Chiffinch," said the lady, "these jaunts to the country do render + you excessively vulgar! there is a brutality about your very boots! nay, + your muslin ruffles, being somewhat soiled, give to your knuckles a sort + of rural rusticity, as I may call it." + </p> + <p> + "It were a good deed," muttered Chiffinch, "to make both boots and + knuckles bang the folly and affectation out of thee." Then speaking aloud, + he added, like a man who would fain break off an argument, by extorting + from his adversary a confession that he has reason on his side, "I am + sure, Kate, you must be sensible that our all depends on his Majesty's + pleasure." + </p> + <p> + "Leave that to me," said she; "I know how to pleasure his Majesty better + than you can teach me. Do you think his Majesty is booby enough to cry + like a schoolboy because his sparrow has flown away? His Majesty has + better taste. I am surprised at you, Chiffinch," she added, drawing + herself up, "who were once thought to know the points of a fine woman, + that you should have made such a roaring about this country wench. Why, + she has not even the country quality of being plump as a barn-door fowl, + but is more like a Dunstable lark, that one must crack bones and all if + you would make a mouthful of it. What signifies whence she came, or where + she goes? There will be those behind that are much more worthy of his + Majesty's condescending attention, even when the Duchess of Portsmouth + takes the frumps." + </p> + <p> + "You mean your neighbour, Mistress Nelly," said her worthy helpmate; "but + Kate, her date is out. Wit she has, let her keep herself warm with it in + worse company, for the cant of a gang of strollers is not language for a + prince's chamber."[*] + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +[*] In Evelyn's Memoirs is the following curious passage respecting + Nell Gwyn, who is hinted at in the text:—"I walked with him [King + Charles II.] through Saint James Park to the garden, where I both + saw and heard a very familiar discourse between... [<i>the King</i>] + and Mrs. Nelly, as they called her, an intimate comedian, she + looking out of her garden on a terrace at the top of the wall, and + [<i>the King</i>] standing on the green walk under it. I was heartily + sorry at this scene."—EVELYN'S <i>Memoirs</i>, vol. i. p.413. +</pre> + <p> + "It is no matter what I mean, or whom I mean," said Mrs. Chiffinch; "but I + tell you, Tom Chiffinch, that you will find your master quite consoled for + loss of the piece of prudish puritanism that you would need saddle him + with; as if the good man were not plagued enough with them in Parliament, + but you must, forsooth, bring them into his very bedchamber." + </p> + <p> + "Well, Kate," said Chiffinch, "if a man were to speak all the sense of the + seven wise masters, a woman would find nonsense enough to overwhelm him + with; so I shall say no more, but that I would to Heaven I may find the + King in no worse humour than you describe him. I am commanded to attend + him down the river to the Tower to-day, where he is to make some survey of + arms and stores. They are clever fellows who contrive to keep Rowley from + engaging in business, for, by my word, he has a turn for it." + </p> + <p> + "I warrant you," said Chiffinch the female, nodding, but rather to her own + figure, reflected from a mirror, than to her politic husband,—"I + warrant you we will find means of occupying him that will sufficiently + fill up his time." + </p> + <p> + "On my honour, Kate," said the male Chiffinch, "I find you strangely + altered, and, to speak truth, grown most extremely opinionative. I shall + be happy if you have good reason for your confidence." + </p> + <p> + The dame smiled superciliously, but deigned no other answer, unless this + were one,—"I shall order a boat to go upon the Thames to-day with + the royal party." + </p> + <p> + "Take care what you do, Kate; there are none dare presume so far but women + of the first rank. Duchess of Bolton—of Buckingham—of——" + </p> + <p> + "Who cares for a list of names? why may not I be as forward as the + greatest B. amongst your string of them?" + </p> + <p> + "Nay, faith, thou mayest match the greatest B. in Court already," answered + Chiffinch; "so e'en take thy own course of it. But do not let Chaubert + forget to get some collation ready, and a <i>souper au petit couvert</i>, + in case it should be commanded for the evening." + </p> + <p> + "Ay, there your boasted knowledge of Court matters begins and ends.—Chiffinch, + Chaubert, and Company;—dissolve that partnership, and you break Tom + Chiffinch for a courtier." + </p> + <p> + "Amen, Kate," replied Chiffinch; "and let me tell you it is as safe to + rely on another person's fingers as on our own wit. But I must give orders + for the water.—If you will take the pinnace, there are the + cloth-of-gold cushions in the chapel may serve to cover the benches for + the day. They are never wanted where they lie, so you may make free with + them too." + </p> + <p> + Madam Chiffinch accordingly mingled with the flotilla which attended the + King on his voyage down the Thames, amongst whom was the Queen, attended + by some of the principal ladies of the Court. The little plump Cleopatra, + dressed to as much advantage as her taste could devise, and seated upon + her embroidered cushions like Venus in her shell, neglected nothing that + effrontery and minauderie could perform to draw upon herself some portion + of the King's observation; but Charles was not in the vein, and did not + even pay her the slightest passing attention of any kind, until her + boatmen having ventured to approach nearer to the Queen's barge than + etiquette permitted, received a peremptory order to back their oars, and + fall out of the royal procession. Madam Chiffinch cried for spite, and + transgressed Solomon's warning, by cursing the King in her heart; but had + no better course than to return to Westminster, and direct Chaubert's + preparations for the evening. + </p> + <p> + In the meantime the royal barge paused at the Tower; and, accompanied by a + laughing train of ladies and of courtiers, the gay Monarch made the echoes + of the old prison-towers ring with the unwonted sounds of mirth and + revelry. As they ascended from the river-side to the centre of the + building, where the fine old keep of William the Conqueror, called the + White Tower, predominates over the exterior defences, Heaven only knows + how many gallant jests, good or bad, were run on the comparison of his + Majesty's state-prison to that of Cupid, and what killing similes were + drawn between the ladies' eyes and the guns of the fortress, which, spoken + with a fashionable congée, and listened to with a smile from a fair lady, + formed the fine conversations of the day. + </p> + <p> + This gay swarm of flutterers did not, however, attend close on the King's + person, though they had accompanied him upon his party on the river. + Charles, who often formed manly and sensible resolutions, though he was + too easily diverted from them by indolence or pleasure, had some desire to + make himself personally acquainted with the state of the military stores, + arms, &c. of which the Tower was then, as now, the magazine; and, + although he had brought with him the usual number of his courtiers, only + three or four attended him on the scrutiny which he intended. Whilst, + therefore, the rest of the train amused themselves as they might in other + parts of the Tower, the King, accompanied by the Dukes of Buckingham, + Ormond, and one or two others, walked through the well-known hall, in + which is preserved the most splendid magazine of arms in the world, and + which, though far from exhibiting its present extraordinary state of + perfection, was even then an arsenal worthy of the great nation to which + it belonged. + </p> + <p> + The Duke of Ormond, well known for his services during the Great Civil + War, was, as we have elsewhere noticed, at present rather on cold terms + with his Sovereign, who nevertheless asked his advice on many occasions, + and who required it on the present amongst others, when it was not a + little feared that the Parliament, in their zeal for the Protestant + religion, might desire to take the magazines of arms and ammunition under + their own exclusive orders. While Charles sadly hinted at such a + termination of the popular jealousies of the period, and discussed with + Ormond the means of resisting, or evading it, Buckingham, falling a little + behind, amused himself with ridiculing the antiquated appearance and + embarrassed demeanour of the old warder who attended on the occasion, and + who chanced to be the very same who escorted Julian Peveril to his present + place of confinement. The Duke prosecuted his raillery with the greater + activity, that he found the old man, though restrained by the place and + presence, was rather upon the whole testy, and disposed to afford what + sportsmen call <i>play</i> to his persecutor. The various pieces of + ancient armour, with which the wall was covered, afforded the principal + source of the Duke's wit, as he insisted upon knowing from the old man, + who, he said, could best remember matters from the days of King Arthur + downwards at the least, the history of the different warlike weapons, and + anecdotes of the battles in which they had been wielded. The old man + obviously suffered, when he was obliged, by repeated questions, to tell + the legends (often sufficiently absurd) which the tradition of the place + had assigned to particular relics. Far from flourishing his partisan, and + augmenting the emphasis of his voice, as was and is the prevailing fashion + of these warlike Ciceroni, it was scarcely possible to extort from him a + single word concerning those topics on which their information is usually + overflowing. + </p> + <p> + "Do you know, my friend," said the Duke to him at last, "I begin to change + my mind respecting you. I supposed you must have served as a Yeoman of the + Guard since bluff King Henry's time, and expected to hear something from + you about the Field of the Cloth of Gold,—and I thought of asking + you the colour of Anne Bullen's breastknot, which cost the Pope three + kingdoms; but I am afraid you are but a novice in such recollections of + love and chivalry. Art sure thou didst not creep into thy warlike office + from some dark shop in Tower-Hamlets, and that thou hast not converted an + unlawful measuring-yard into that glorious halberd?—I warrant thou + canst not even tell you whom this piece of antique panoply pertained to?" + </p> + <p> + The Duke pointed at random to a cuirass which hung amongst others, but was + rather remarkable from being better cleansed. + </p> + <p> + "I should know that piece of iron," said the warder bluntly, yet with some + change in his voice; "for I have known a man within side of it who would + not have endured half the impertinence I have heard spoken to-day." + </p> + <p> + The tone of the old man, as well as the words, attracted the attention of + Charles and the Duke of Ormond, who were only two steps before the + speaker. They both stopped, and turned round; the former saying at the + same time,—"how now, sirrah!—what answers are these?—What + man do you speak of?" + </p> + <p> + "Of one who is none now," said the warder, "whatever he may have been." + </p> + <p> + "The old man surely speaks of himself," said the Duke of Ormond, closely + examining the countenance of the warder, which he in vain endeavoured to + turn away. "I am sure I remember these features—Are not you my old + friend, Major Coleby?" + </p> + <p> + "I wish your Grace's memory had been less accurate," said the old man, + colouring deeply, and fixing his eyes on the ground. + </p> + <p> + The King was greatly shocked.—"Good God!" he said, "the gallant + Major Coleby, who joined us with his four sons and a hundred and fifty men + at Warrington!—And is this all we could do for an old Worcester + friend?" + </p> + <p> + The tears rushed thick into the old man's eyes as he said in broken + accents, "Never mind me, sire; I am well enough here—a worn-out + soldier rusting among old armour. Where one old Cavalier is better, there + are twenty worse.—I am sorry your Majesty should know anything of + it, since it grieves you." + </p> + <p> + With that kindness, which was a redeeming point of his character, Charles, + while the old man was speaking, took the partisan from him with his own + hand, and put it into that of Buckingham, saying, "What Coleby's hand has + borne, can disgrace neither yours nor mine,—and you owe him this + atonement. Time has been with him, that, for less provocation, he would + have laid it about your ears." + </p> + <p> + The Duke bowed deeply, but coloured with resentment, and took an immediate + opportunity to place the weapon carelessly against a pile of arms. The + King did not observe a contemptuous motion, which, perhaps, would not have + pleased him, being at the moment occupied with the veteran, whom he + exhorted to lean upon him, as he conveyed him to a seat, permitting no + other person to assist him. "Rest there," he said, "my brave old friend; + and Charles Stewart must be poor indeed, if you wear that dress an hour + longer.—You look very pale, my good Coleby, to have had so much + colour a few minutes since. Be not vexed at what Buckingham says; no one + minds his folly.—You look worse and worse. Come, come, you are too + much hurried by this meeting. Sit still—do not rise—do not + attempt to kneel. I command you to repose yourself till I have made the + round of these apartments." + </p> + <p> + The old Cavalier stooped his head in token of acquiescence in the command + of his Sovereign, but he raised it not again. The tumultuous agitation of + the moment had been too much for spirits which had been long in a state of + depression, and health which was much decayed. When the King and his + attendants, after half-an-hour's absence, returned to the spot where they + had left the veteran, they found him dead, and already cold, in the + attitude of one who has fallen easily asleep. The King was dreadfully + shocked; and it was with a low and faltering voice that he directed the + body, in due time, to be honourably buried in the chapel of the Tower.[*] + He was then silent, until he attained the steps in front of the arsenal, + where the party in attendance upon his person began to assemble at his + approach, along with some other persons of respectable appearance, whom + curiosity had attracted. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +[*] A story of this nature is current in the legends of the Tower. The + affecting circumstances are, I believe, recorded in one of the + little manuals which are put into the hands of visitors, but are + not to be found in the later editions. +</pre> + <p> + "This is dreadful," said the King. "We must find some means of relieving + the distresses, and rewarding the fidelity of our suffering followers, or + posterity will cry fie upon our memory." + </p> + <p> + "Your Majesty has had often such plans agitated in your Council," said + Buckingham. + </p> + <p> + "True, George," said the King. "I can safely say it is not my fault. I + have thought of it for years." + </p> + <p> + "It cannot be too well considered," said Buckingham; "besides, every year + makes the task of relief easier." + </p> + <p> + "True," said the Duke of Ormond, "by diminishing the number of sufferers. + Here is poor old Coleby will no longer be a burden to the Crown." + </p> + <p> + "You are too severe, my Lord of Ormond," said the King, "and should + respect the feelings you trespass on. You cannot suppose that we would + have permitted this poor man to hold such a situation, had we known of the + circumstances?" + </p> + <p> + "For God's sake, then, sire," said the Duke of Ormond, "turn your eyes, + which have just rested on the corpse of one old friend, upon the + distresses of others. Here is the valiant old Sir Geoffrey Peveril of the + Peak, who fought through the whole war, wherever blows were going, and was + the last man, I believe, in England, who laid down his arms—Here is + his son, of whom I have the highest accounts, as a gallant of spirit, + accomplishments, and courage—Here is the unfortunate House of Derby—for + pity's sake, interfere in behalf of these victims, whom the folds of this + hydra-plot have entangled, in order to crush them to death—rebuke + the fiends that are seeking to devour their lives, and disappoint the + harpies that are gaping for their property. This very day seven-night the + unfortunate family, father and son, are to be brought upon trial for + crimes of which they are as guiltless, I boldly pronounce, as any who + stand in this presence. For God's sake, sire, let us hope that, should the + prejudices of the people condemn them, as it has done others, you will at + last step in between the blood-hunters and their prey." + </p> + <p> + The King looked, as he really was, exceedingly perplexed. + </p> + <p> + Buckingham, between whom and Ormond there existed a constant and almost + mortal quarrel, interfered to effect a diversion in Charles's favour. + "Your Majesty's royal benevolence," he said, "needs never want exercise, + while the Duke of Ormond is near your person. He has his sleeve cut in the + old and ample fashion, that he may always have store of ruined cavaliers + stowed in it to produce at demand, rare old raw-boned boys, with Malmsey + noses, bald heads, spindle shanks, and merciless histories of Edgehill and + Naseby." + </p> + <p> + "My sleeve is, I dare say, of an antique cut," said Ormond, looking full + at the Duke; "but I pin neither bravoes nor ruffians upon it, my Lord of + Buckingham, as I see fastened to coats of the new mode." + </p> + <p> + "That is a little too sharp for our presence, my lord," said the King. + </p> + <p> + "Not if I make my words good," said Ormond.—"My Lord of Buckingham, + will you name the man you spoke to as you left the boat?" + </p> + <p> + "I spoke to no one," said the Duke hastily—"nay, I mistake, I + remember a fellow whispered in my ear, that one, who I thought had left + London was still lingering in town. A person whom I had business with." + </p> + <p> + "Was yon the messenger?" said Ormond, singling out from the crowd who + stood in the court-yard a tall dark-looking man, muffled in a large cloak, + wearing a broad shadowy black beaver hat, with a long sword of the Spanish + fashion—the very Colonel, in short, whom Buckingham had despatched + in quest of Christian, with the intention of detaining him in the country. + </p> + <p> + When Buckingham's eyes had followed the direction of Ormond's finger, he + could not help blushing so deeply as to attract the King's attention. + </p> + <p> + "What new frolic is this, George?" he said. "Gentlemen, bring that fellow + forward. On my life, a truculent-looking caitiff—Hark ye, friend, + who are you? If an honest man, Nature has forgot to label it upon your + countenance.—Does none here know him? + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + 'With every symptom of a knave complete, + If he be honest, he's a devilish cheat.'" +</pre> + <p> + "He is well known to many, sire," replied Ormond; "and that he walks in + this area with his neck safe, and his limbs unshackled, is an instance, + amongst many, that we live under the sway of the most merciful Prince of + Europe." + </p> + <p> + "Oddsfish! who is the man, my Lord Duke?" said the King. "Your Grace talks + mysteries—Buckingham blushes—and the rogue himself is dumb." + </p> + <p> + "That honest gentleman, please your Majesty," replied the Duke of Ormond, + "whose modesty makes him mute, though it cannot make him blush, is the + notorious Colonel Blood, as he calls himself, whose attempt to possess + himself of your Majesty's royal crown took place at no very distant date, + in this very Tower of London." + </p> + <p> + "That exploit is not easily forgotten," said the King; "but that the + fellow lives, shows your Grace's clemency as well as mine." + </p> + <p> + "I cannot deny that I was in his hands, sire," said Ormond, "and had + certainly been murdered by him, had he chosen to take my life on the spot, + instead of destining me—I thank him for the honour—to be + hanged at Tyburn. I had certainly been sped, if he had thought me worth + knife or pistol, or anything short of the cord.—Look at him sire! If + the rascal dared, he would say at this moment, like Caliban in the play, + 'Ho, ho, I would I had done it!'" + </p> + <p> + "Why, oddsfish!" answered the King, "he hath a villainous sneer, my lord, + which seems to say as much; but, my Lord Duke, we have pardoned him, and + so has your Grace." + </p> + <p> + "It would ill have become me," said the Duke of Ormond, "to have been + severe in prosecuting an attempt on my poor life, when your Majesty was + pleased to remit his more outrageous and insolent attempt upon your royal + crown. But I must conceive it as a piece of supreme insolence on the part + of this bloodthirsty bully, by whomsoever he may be now backed, to appear + in the Tower, which was the theatre of one of his villainies, or before + me, who was well-nigh the victim of another." + </p> + <p> + "It shall be amended in future," said the King.—"Hark ye, sirrah + Blood, if you again presume to thrust yourself in the way you have done + but now, I will have the hangman's knife and your knavish ears made + acquainted." + </p> + <p> + Blood bowed, and with a coolness of impudence which did his nerves great + honour, he said he had only come to the Tower accidentally, to communicate + with a particular friend on business of importance. "My Lord Duke of + Buckingham," he said, "knew he had no other intentions." + </p> + <p> + "Get you gone, you scoundrelly cut-throat," said the Duke, as much + impatient of Colonel Blood's claim of acquaintance, as a town-rake of the + low and blackguard companions of his midnight rambles, when they accost + him in daylight amidst better company; "if you dare to quote my name + again, I will have you thrown into the Thames." + </p> + <p> + Blood, thus repulsed, turned round with the most insolent composure, and + walked away down from the parade, all men looking at him, as at some + strange and monstrous prodigy, so much was he renowned for daring and + desperate villainy. Some even followed him, to have a better survey of the + notorious Colonel Blood, like the smaller tribe of birds which keep + fluttering round an owl when he appears in the light of the sun. But as, + in the latter case, these thoughtless flutterers are careful to keep out + of reach of the beak and claws of the bird of Minerva, so none of those + who followed and gazed on Blood as something ominous, cared to bandy looks + with him, or to endure and return the lowering and deadly glances, which + he shot from time to time on those who pressed nearest to him. He stalked + on in this manner, like a daunted, yet sullen wolf, afraid to stop, yet + unwilling to fly, until he reached the Traitor's Gate, and getting on + board a sculler which waited for him, he disappeared from their eyes. + </p> + <p> + Charles would fain have obliterated all recollection of his appearance, by + the observation, "It were a shame that such a reprobate scoundrel should + be the subject of discord between two noblemen of distinction;" and he + recommended to the Dukes of Buckingham and Ormond to join hands, and + forget a misunderstanding which rose on so unworthy a subject. + </p> + <p> + Buckingham answered carelessly, "That the Duke of Ormond's honoured white + hairs were a sufficient apology for his making the first overtures to a + reconciliation," and he held out his hand accordingly. But Ormond only + bowed in return, and said, "The King had no cause to expect that the Court + would be disturbed by his personal resentments, since time would not yield + him back twenty years, nor the grave restore his gallant son Ossory. As to + the ruffian who had intruded himself there, he was obliged to him, since, + by showing that his Majesty's clemency extended even to the very worst of + criminals, he strengthened his hopes of obtaining the King's favour for + such of his innocent friends as were now in prison, and in danger, from + the odious charges brought against them on the score of the Popish Plot." + </p> + <p> + The King made no other answer to this insinuation, than by directing that + the company should embark for their return to Whitehall; and thus took + leave of the officers of the Tower who were in attendance, with one of + those well-turned compliments to their discharge of duty, which no man + knew better how to express; and issued at the same time strict and anxious + orders for protection and defence of the important fortress confided to + them, and all which it contained. + </p> + <p> + Before he parted with Ormond on their arrival at Whitehall, he turned + round to him, as one who has made up his resolution, and said, "Be + satisfied, my Lord Duke—our friends' case shall be looked to." + </p> + <p> + In the same evening the Attorney-General, and North, Lord Chief Justice of + the Common Pleas, had orders with all secrecy, to meet his Majesty that + evening on especial matters of state, at the apartments of Chiffinch, the + centre of all affairs, whether of gallantry or business. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0041" id="link2HCH0041"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XLI + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Yet, Corah, thou shalt from oblivion pass; + Erect thyself, thou monumental brass, + High as the serpent of thy metal made, + While nations stand secure beneath thy shade. + —ABSALOM AND ACHITOPHEL. +</pre> + <p> + The morning which Charles had spent in visiting the Tower, had been very + differently employed by those unhappy individuals, whom their bad fate, + and the singular temper of the times, had made the innocent tenants of + that state prison, and who had received official notice that they were to + stand their trial in the Court of Queen's Bench at Westminster, on the + seventh succeeding day. The stout old Cavalier at first only railed at the + officer for spoiling his breakfast with the news, but evinced great + feeling when he was told that Julian was to be put under the same + indictment. + </p> + <p> + We intend to dwell only very generally on the nature of their trial, which + corresponded, in the outline, with almost all those which took place + during the prevalence of the Popish Plot. That is, one or two infamous and + perjured evidences, whose profession of common informers had become + frightfully lucrative, made oath to the prisoners having expressed + themselves interested in the great confederacy of the Catholics. A number + of others brought forward facts or suspicions, affecting the character of + the parties as honest Protestants and good subjects; and betwixt the + direct and presumptive evidence, enough was usually extracted for + justifying, to a corrupted court and perjured jury, the fatal verdict of + Guilty. + </p> + <p> + The fury of the people had, however, now begun to pass away, exhausted + even by its own violence. The English nation differ from all others, + indeed even from those of the sister kingdoms, in being very easily sated + with punishment, even when they suppose it most merited. Other nations are + like the tamed tiger, which, when once its native appetite for slaughter + is indulged in one instance, rushes on in promiscuous ravages. But the + English public have always rather resembled what is told of the + sleuth-dog, which, eager, fierce, and clamorous in pursuit of his prey, + desists from it so soon as blood is sprinkled upon his path. + </p> + <p> + Men's minds were now beginning to cool—the character of the + witnesses was more closely sifted—their testimonies did not in all + cases tally—and a wholesome suspicion began to be entertained of + men, who would never say they had made a full discovery of all they knew, + but avowedly reserved some points of evidence to bear on future trials. + </p> + <p> + The King also, who had lain passive during the first burst of popular + fury, was now beginning to bestir himself, which produced a marked effect + on the conduct of the Crown Counsel, and even the Judges. Sir George + Wakeman had been acquitted in spite of Oates's direct testimony; and + public attention was strongly excited concerning the event of the next + trial; which chanced to be that of the Peverils, father and son, with + whom, I know not from what concatenation, little Hudson the dwarf was + placed at the bar of the Court of King's Bench. + </p> + <p> + It was a piteous sight to behold a father and son, who had been so long + separated, meet under circumstances so melancholy; and many tears were + shed, when the majestic old man—for such he was, though now broken + with years—folded his son to his bosom, with a mixture of joy, + affection, and a bitter anticipation of the event of the impending trial. + There was a feeling in the Court that for a moment overcame every + prejudice and party feeling. Many spectators shed tears; and there was + even a low moaning, as of those who weep aloud. + </p> + <p> + Such as felt themselves sufficiently at ease to remark the conduct of poor + little Geoffrey Hudson, who was scarcely observed amid the preponderating + interest created by his companions in misfortune, could not but notice a + strong degree of mortification on the part of that diminutive gentleman. + He had soothed his great mind by the thoughts of playing the character + which he was called on to sustain, in a manner which should be long + remembered in that place; and on his entrance, had saluted the numerous + spectators, as well as the Court, with a cavalier air, which he meant + should express grace, high-breeding, perfect coolness, with a noble + disregard to the issue of their proceedings. But his little person was so + obscured and jostled aside, on the meeting of the father and son, who had + been brought in different boats from the Tower, and placed at the bar at + the same moment, that his distress and his dignity were alike thrown into + the background, and attracted neither sympathy nor admiration. + </p> + <p> + The dwarf's wisest way to attract attention would have been to remain + quiet, when so remarkable an exterior would certainly have received in its + turn the share of public notice which he so eagerly coveted. But when did + personal vanity listen to the suggestions of prudence?—Our impatient + friend scrambled, with some difficulty, on the top of the bench intended + for his seat; and there, "paining himself to stand a-tiptoe," like + Chaucer's gallant Sir Chaunticlere, he challenged the notice of the + audience as he stood bowing and claiming acquaintance of his namesake Sir + Geoffrey the larger, with whose shoulders, notwithstanding his elevated + situation, he was scarcely yet upon a level. + </p> + <p> + The taller Knight, whose mind was occupied in a very different manner, + took no notice of these advances upon the dwarf's part, but sat down with + the determination rather to die on the spot than evince any symptoms of + weakness before Roundheads and Presbyterians; under which obnoxious + epithets, being too old-fashioned to find out party designations of newer + date, he comprehended all persons concerned in his present trouble. + </p> + <p> + By Sir Geoffrey the larger's change of position, his face was thus brought + on a level with that of Sir Geoffrey the less, who had an opportunity of + pulling him by the cloak. He of Martindale Castle, rather mechanically + than consciously, turned his head towards the large wrinkled visage, + which, struggling between an assumed air of easy importance, and an + anxious desire to be noticed, was grimacing within a yard of him. But + neither the singular physiognomy, the nods and smiles of greeting and + recognition into which it was wreathed, nor the strange little form by + which it was supported, had at that moment the power of exciting any + recollections in the old Knight's mind; and having stared for a moment at + the poor little man, his bulky namesake turned away his head without + farther notice. + </p> + <p> + Julian Peveril, the dwarf's more recent acquaintance, had, even amid his + own anxious feelings, room for sympathy with those of his little + fellow-sufferer. As soon as he discovered that he was at the same terrible + bar with himself, although he could not conceive how their causes came to + be conjoined, he acknowledged him by a hearty shake of the hand, which the + old man returned with affected dignity and real gratitude. "Worthy youth," + he said, "thy presence is restorative, like the nepenthe of Homer even in + this syncopé of our mutual fate. I am concerned to see that your father + hath not the same alacrity of soul as that of ours, which are lodged + within smaller compass; and that he hath forgotten an ancient comrade and + fellow-soldier, who now stands beside him to perform, perhaps, their last + campaign." + </p> + <p> + Julian briefly replied, that his father had much to occupy him. But the + little man—who, to do him justice, cared no more (in his own phrase) + for imminent danger or death, than he did for the puncture of a flea's + proboscis—did not so easily renounce the secret object of his + ambition, which was to acquire the notice of the large and lofty Sir + Geoffrey Peveril, who, being at least three inches taller than his son, + was in so far possessed of that superior excellence, which the poor dwarf, + in his secret soul, valued before all other distinctions, although in his + conversation, he was constantly depreciating it. "Good comrade and + namesake," he proceeded, stretching out his hand, so as to again to reach + the elder Peveril's cloak, "I forgive your want of reminiscence, seeing it + is long since I saw you at Naseby, fighting as if you had as many arms as + the fabled Briareus." + </p> + <p> + The Knight of Martindale, who had again turned his head towards the little + man, and had listened, as if endeavouring to make something out of his + discourse, here interrupted him with a peevish, "Pshaw!" + </p> + <p> + "Pshaw!" repeated Sir Geoffrey the less; "<i>Pshaw</i> is an expression of + slight esteem,—nay, of contempt,—in all languages; and were + this a befitting place——" + </p> + <p> + But the Judges had now taken their places, the criers called silence, and + the stern voice of the Lord Chief Justice (the notorious Scroggs) demanded + what the officers meant by permitting the accused to communicate together + in open court. + </p> + <p> + It may here be observed, that this celebrated personage was, upon the + present occasion, at a great loss how to proceed. A calm, dignified, + judicial demeanour, was at no time the characteristic of his official + conduct. He always ranted and roared either on the one side or the other; + and of late, he had been much unsettled which side to take, being totally + incapable of anything resembling impartiality. At the first trials for the + Plot, when the whole stream of popularity ran against the accused, no one + had been so loud as Scroggs; to attempt to the character of Oates or + Bedloe, or any other leading witnesses, he treated as a crime more heinous + than it would have been to blaspheme the Gospel on which they had been + sworn—it was a stifling of the Plot, or discrediting of the King's + witnesses—a crime not greatly, if at all, short of high treason + against the King himself. + </p> + <p> + But, of late, a new light had begun to glimmer upon the understanding of + this interpreter of the laws. Sagacious in the signs of the times, he + began to see that the tide was turning; and that Court favour at least, + and probably popular opinion also, were likely, in a short time, to + declare against the witnesses, and in favour of the accused. + </p> + <p> + The opinion which Scroggs had hitherto entertained of the high respect in + which Shaftesbury, the patron of the Plot, was held by Charles, had been + definitely shaken by a whisper from his brother North to the following + effect: "His Lordship has no more interest at Court than your footman." + </p> + <p> + This notice, from a sure hand, and received but that morning, had put the + Judge to a sore dilemma; for, however indifferent to actual consistency, + he was most anxious to save appearances. He could not but recollect how + violent he had been on former occasions in favour of these prosecutions; + and being sensible at the same time that the credit of the witnesses, + though shaken in the opinion of the more judicious, was, amongst the bulk + of the people out of doors, as strong as ever, he had a difficult part to + play. His conduct, therefore, during the whole trial, resembled the + appearance of a vessel about to go upon another tack, when her sails are + shivering in the wind, ere they have yet caught the impulse which is to + send her forth in a new direction. In a word, he was so uncertain which + side it was his interest to favour, that he might be said on that occasion + to have come nearer a state of total impartiality than he was ever capable + of attaining, whether before or afterwards. This was shown by his bullying + now the accused, and now the witnesses, like a mastiff too much irritated + to lie still without baying, but uncertain whom he shall first bite. + </p> + <p> + The indictment was then read; and Sir Geoffrey Peveril heard, with some + composure, the first part of it, which stated him to have placed his son + in the household of the Countess of Derby, a recusant Papist, for the + purpose of aiding the horrible and bloodthirsty Popish Plot—with + having had arms and ammunition concealed in his house—and with + receiving a blank commission from the Lord Stafford, who had suffered + death on account of the Plot. But when the charge went on to state that he + had communicated for the same purpose with Geoffrey Hudson, sometimes + called Sir Geoffrey Hudson, now, or formerly in the domestic service of + the Queen Dowager, he looked at his companion as if he suddenly recalled + him to remembrance, and broke out impatiently, "These lies are too gross + to require a moment's consideration. I might have had enough of + intercourse, though in nothing but what was loyal and innocent, with my + noble kinsman, the late Lord Stafford—I will call him so in spite of + his misfortunes—and with my wife's relation, the Honourable Countess + of Derby. But what likelihood can there be that I should have colleagued + with a decrepit buffoon, with whom I never had an instant's communication, + save once at an Easter feast, when I whistled a hornpipe, as he danced on + a trencher to amuse the company?" + </p> + <p> + The rage of the poor dwarf brought tears in his eyes, while, with an + affected laugh, he said, that instead of those juvenile and festive + passages, Sir Geoffrey Peveril might have remembered his charging along + with him at Wiggan Lane. + </p> + <p> + "On my word," said Sir Geoffrey, after a moment's recollection, "I will do + you justice, Master Hudson—I believe you were there—I think I + heard you did good service. But you will allow you might have been near + one without his seeing you." + </p> + <p> + A sort of titter ran through the Court at the simplicity of the larger Sir + Geoffrey's testimony, which the dwarf endeavoured to control, by standing + on his tiptoes, and looking fiercely around, as if to admonish the + laughers that they indulged their mirth at their own peril. But perceiving + that this only excited farther scorn, he composed himself into a semblance + of careless contempt, observing, with a smile, that no one feared the + glance of a chained lion; a magnificent simile, which rather increased + than diminished the mirth of those who heard it. + </p> + <p> + Against Julian Peveril there failed not to be charged the aggravated fact, + that he had been bearer of letters between the Countess of Derby and other + Papists and priests, engaged in the universal treasonable conspiracy of + the Catholics; and the attack of the house at Moultrassie Hall,—with + his skirmish with Chiffinch, and his assault, as it was termed, on the + person of John Jenkins, servant to the Duke of Buckingham, were all + narrated at length, as so many open and overt acts of treasonable import. + To this charge Peveril contented himself with pleading—Not Guilty. + </p> + <p> + His little companion was not satisfied with so simple a plea; for when he + heard it read, as a part of the charge applying to him, that he had + received from an agent of the Plot a blank commission as Colonel of a + regiment of grenadiers, he replied, in wrath and scorn, that if Goliath of + Gath had come to him with such a proposal, and proffered him the command + of the whole sons of Anak in a body, he should never have had occasion or + opportunity to repeat the temptation to another. "I would have slain him," + said the little man of loyalty, "even where he stood." + </p> + <p> + The charge was stated anew by the Counsel for the Crown; and forth came + the notorious Doctor Oates, rustling in the full silken canonicals of + priesthood, for it was a time when he affected no small dignity of + exterior decoration and deportment. + </p> + <p> + This singular man, who, aided by the obscure intrigues of the Catholics + themselves, and the fortuitous circumstance of Godfrey's murder, had been + able to cram down the public throat such a mass of absurdity as his + evidence amounts to, had no other talent for imposture than an impudence + which set conviction and shame alike at defiance. A man of sense or + reflection, by trying to give his plot an appearance of more probability, + would most likely have failed, as wise men often to do in addressing the + multitude, from not daring to calculate upon the prodigious extent of + their credulity, especially where the figments presented to them involve + the fearful and the terrible. + </p> + <p> + Oates was by nature choleric; and the credit he had acquired made him + insolent and conceited. Even his exterior was portentous. A fleece of + white periwig showed a most uncouth visage, of great length, having the + mouth, as the organ by use of which he was to rise to eminence, placed in + the very centre of the countenance, and exhibiting to the astonished + spectator as much chin below as there was nose and brow above the + aperture. His pronunciation, too, was after a conceited fashion of his + own, in which he accented the vowels in a manner altogether peculiar to + himself. + </p> + <p> + This notorious personage, such as we have described him, stood forth on + the present trial, and delivered his astonishing testimony concerning the + existence of a Catholic Plot for the subversion of the government and + murder of the King, in the same general outline in which it may be found + in every English history. But as the doctor always had in reserve some + special piece of evidence affecting those immediately on trial, he was + pleased, on the present occasion, deeply to inculpate the Countess of + Derby. "He had seen," as he said, "that honourable lady when he was at the + Jesuits' College at Saint Omer's. She had sent for him to an inn, or <i>auberge</i>, + as it was there termed—the sign of the Golden Lamb; and had ordered + him to breakfast in the same room with her ladyship; and afterwards told + him, that, knowing he was trusted by the Fathers of the Society, she was + determined that he should have a share of her secrets also; and + therewithal, that she drew from her bosom a broad sharp-pointed knife, + such as butchers kill sheep with, and demanded of him what he thought of + it for <i>the purpose</i>; and when he, the witness, said for what purpose + she rapt him on the fingers with her fan, called him a dull fellow, and + said it was designed to kill the King with." + </p> + <p> + Here Sir Geoffrey Peveril could no longer refrain his indignation and + surprise. "Mercy of Heaven!" he said, "did ever one hear of ladies of + quality carrying butchering knives about them, and telling every scurvy + companion she meant to kill the King with them?—Gentleman of the + Jury, do but think if this is reasonable—though, if the villain + could prove by any honest evidence, that my Lady of Derby ever let such a + scum as himself come to speech of her, I would believe all he can say." + </p> + <p> + "Sir Geoffrey," said the Judge, "rest you quiet—You must not fly out—passion + helps you not here—the Doctor must be suffered to proceed." + </p> + <p> + Doctor Oates went on to state how the lady complained of the wrongs the + House of Derby had sustained from the King and the oppression of her + religion, and boasted of the schemes of the Jesuits and seminary priests; + and how they would be farthered by her noble kinsman of the House of + Stanley. He finally averred that both the Countess and the Fathers of the + seminary abroad, founded much upon the talents and courage of Sir Geoffrey + Peveril and his son—the latter of whom was a member of her family. + Of Hudson, he only recollected of having heard one of the Fathers say, + that although but a dwarf in stature, he would prove a giant in the cause + of the Church. + </p> + <p> + When he had ended his evidence, there was a pause, until the Judge, as if + the thought had suddenly occurred to him, demanded of Dr. Oates, whether + he had ever mentioned the names of the Countess of Derby in any of the + previous informations which he had lodged before the Privy Council, and + elsewhere, upon this affair. + </p> + <p> + Oates seemed rather surprised at the question, and coloured with anger, as + he answered, in his peculiar mode of pronunciation, "Whoy, no, maay + laard." + </p> + <p> + "And pray, Doctor," said the Judge, "how came so great a revealer of + mysteries as you have lately proved, to have suffered so material a + circumstance as the accession of this powerful family to the Plot to have + remained undiscovered?" + </p> + <p> + "Maay laard," said Oates, with much effrontery, "aye do not come here to + have my evidence questioned as touching the Plaat." + </p> + <p> + "I do not question your evidence, Doctor," said Scroggs, for the time was + not arrived that he dared treat him roughly; "nor do I doubt the existence + of the <i>Plaat</i>, since it is your pleasure to swear to it. I would + only have you, for your own sake, and the satisfaction of all good + Protestants, to explain why you have kept back such a weighty point of + information from the King and country." + </p> + <p> + "Maay laard," said Oates, "I will tell you a pretty fable." + </p> + <p> + "I hope," answered the Judge, "it may be the first and last which you + shall tell in this place." + </p> + <p> + "Maay laard," continued Oates, "there was once a faux, who having to carry + a goose over a frazen river, and being afraid the aice would not bear him + and his booty, did caarry aaver a staane, my laard, in the first instance, + to prove the strength of the aice." + </p> + <p> + "So your former evidence was but the stone, and now, for the first time, + you have brought us the goose?" said Sir William Scroggs; "to tell us + this, Doctor, is to make geese of the Court and Jury." + </p> + <p> + "I desoire your laardship's honest construction," said Oates, who saw the + current changing against him, but was determined to pay the score with + effrontery. "All men knaw at what coast and praice I have given my + evidence, which has been always, under Gaad, the means of awakening this + poor naation to the dangerous state in which it staunds. Many here knaw + that I have been obliged to faartify my ladging at Whitehall against the + bloody Papists. It was not to be thought that I should have brought all + the story out at aance. I think your wisdome would have advised me + otherwise."[*] + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +[*] It was on such terms that Dr. Oates was pleased to claim the + extraordinary privilege of dealing out the information which he + chose to communicate to a court of justice. The only sense in + which his story of the fox, stone, and goose could be applicable, + is by supposing that he was determined to ascertain the extent of + his countrymen's credulity before supplying it with a full meal. +</pre> + <p> + "Nay, Doctor," said the Judge, "it is not for me to direct you in this + affair; and it is for the Jury to believe you or not; and as for myself, I + sit here to do justice to both—the Jury have heard your answer to my + question." + </p> + <p> + Doctor Oates retired from the witness-box reddening like a turkey-cock, as + one totally unused to have such accounts questioned as he chose to lay + before the courts of justice; and there was, perhaps, for the first time, + amongst the counsel and solicitors, as well as the templars and students + of law there present, a murmur, distinct and audible, unfavourable to the + character of the great father of the Popish Plot. + </p> + <p> + Everett and Dangerfield, with whom the reader is already acquainted, were + then called in succession to sustain the accusation. They were subordinate + informers—a sort of under-spur-leathers, as the cant term went—who + followed the path of Oates, with all deference to his superior genius and + invention, and made their own fictions chime in and harmonise with his, as + well as their talents could devise. But as their evidence had at no time + received the full credence into which the impudence of Oates had cajoled + the public, so they now began to fall into discredit rather more hastily + than their prototype, as the super-added turrets of an ill-constructed + building are naturally the first to give way. + </p> + <p> + It was in vain that Everett, with the precision of a hypocrite, and + Dangerfield, with the audacity of a bully, narrated, with added + circumstances of suspicion and criminality, their meeting with Julian + Peveril in Liverpool, and again at Martindale Castle. It was in vain they + described the arms and accoutrements which they pretended to have + discovered in old Sir Geoffrey's possession; and that they gave a most + dreadful account of the escape of the younger Peveril from Moultrassie + Hall, by means of an armed force. + </p> + <p> + The Jury listened coldly, and it was visible that they were but little + moved by the accusation; especially as the Judge, always professing his + belief in the Plot, and his zeal for the Protestant religion, was ever and + anon reminding them that presumptions were no proofs—that hearsay + was no evidence—that those who made a trade of discovery were likely + to aid their researches by invention—and that without doubting the + guilt of the unfortunate persons at the bar, he would gladly hear some + evidence brought against them of a different nature. "Here we are told of + a riot, and an escape achieved by the younger Peveril, at the house of a + grave and worthy magistrate, known, I think, to most of us. Why, Master + Attorney, bring ye not Master Bridgenorth himself to prove the fact, or + all his household, if it be necessary?—A rising in arms is an affair + over public to be left on the hearsay tale of these two men—though + Heaven forbid that I should suppose they speak one word more than they + believe! They are the witnesses for the King—and, what is equally + dear to us, the Protestant religion—and witnesses against a most + foul and heathenish Plot. On the other hand, here is a worshipful old + knight, for such I must suppose him to be, since he has bled often in + battle for the King,—such, I must say, I suppose him to be, until he + is proved otherwise. And here is his son, a hopeful young gentleman—we + must see that they have right, Master Attorney." + </p> + <p> + "Unquestionably, my lord," answered the Attorney. "God forbid else! But we + will make out these matters against these unhappy gentlemen in a manner + more close, if your lordship will permit us to bring in our evidence." + </p> + <p> + "Go on, Master Attorney," said the Judge, throwing himself back in his + seat. "Heaven forbid I hinder proving the King's accusation! I only say, + what you know as well as I, that <i>de non apparentibus et non + existentibus eadem est ratio</i>." + </p> + <p> + "We shall then call Master Bridgenorth, as your lordship advised, who I + think is in waiting." + </p> + <p> + "No!" answered a voice from the crowd, apparently that of a female; "he is + too wise and too honest to be here." + </p> + <p> + The voice was distinct as that of Lady Fairfax, when she expressed herself + to a similar effect on the trial of Charles the First; but the researches + which were made on the present occasion to discover the speaker were + unsuccessful. + </p> + <p> + After the slight confusion occasioned by this circumstance was abated, the + Attorney, who had been talking aside with the conductors of the + prosecution, said, "Whoever favoured us with that information, my lord, + had good reason for what they said. Master Bridgenorth has become, I am + told, suddenly invisible since this morning." + </p> + <p> + "Look you there now, Master Attorney," said the Judge—"This comes of + not keeping the crown witnesses together and in readiness—I am sure + I cannot help the consequences." + </p> + <p> + "Nor I either, my lord," said the Attorney pettishly. "I could have proved + by this worshipful gentleman, Master Justice Bridgenorth, the ancient + friendship betwixt this party, Sir Geoffrey Peveril, and the Countess of + Derby, of whose doings and intentions Dr. Oates has given such a + deliberate evidence. I could have proved his having sheltered her in his + Castle against a process of law, and rescued her, by force of arms, from + this very Justice Bridgenorth, not without actual violence. Moreover, I + could have proved against young Peveril the whole affray charged upon him + by the same worshipful evidence." + </p> + <p> + Here the Judge stuck his thumbs into his girdle, which was a favourite + attitude of his on such occasions, and exclaimed, "Pshaw, pshaw, Master + Attorney!—Tell me not that you <i>could</i> have proved that, or + that, or this—Prove what you will, but let it be through the mouths + of your evidence. Men are not to be licked out of their lives by the rough + side of a lawyer's tongue." + </p> + <p> + "Nor is a foul Plot to be smothered," said the Attorney, "for all the + haste your lordship is in. I cannot call Master Chiffinch neither, as he + is employed on the King's especial affairs, as I am this instant + certiorated from the Court at Whitehall." + </p> + <p> + "Produce the papers, then, Master Attorney, of which this young man is + said to be the bearer," said the Judge. + </p> + <p> + "They are before the Privy Council, my lord." + </p> + <p> + "Then why do you found on them here?" said the Judge—"This is + something like trifling with the Court." + </p> + <p> + "Since your lordship gives it that name," said the Attorney, sitting down + in a huff, "you may manage the cause as you will." + </p> + <p> + "If you do not bring more evidence, I pray you to charge the Jury," said + the Judge. + </p> + <p> + "I shall not take the trouble to do so," said the Crown Counsel. "I see + plainly how the matter is to go." + </p> + <p> + "Nay, but be better advised," said Scroggs. "Consider, your case is but + half proved respecting the two Peverils, and doth not pinch on the little + man at all, saving that Doctor Oates said that he was in a certain case to + prove a giant, which seems no very probable Popish miracle." + </p> + <p> + This sally occasioned a laugh in the Court, which the Attorney-General + seemed to take in great dudgeon. + </p> + <p> + "Master Attorney," said Oates, who always interfered in the management of + these law-suits, "this is a plain an absolute giving away of the cause—I + must needs say it, a mere stoifling of the Plaat." + </p> + <p> + "Then the devil who bred it may blow wind into it again, if he lists," + answered the Attorney-General; and, flinging down his brief, he left the + Court, as if in a huff with all who were concerned in the affair. + </p> + <p> + The Judge having obtained silence,—for a murmur arose in the Court + when the Counsel for the prosecution threw up his brief,—began to + charge the Jury, balancing, as he had done throughout the whole day, the + different opinions by which he seemed alternately swayed. He protested on + his salvation that he had no more doubt of the existence of the horrid and + damnable conspiracy called the Popish Plot, than he had of the treachery + of Judas Iscariot; and that he considered Oates as the instrument under + Providence of preserving the nation from all the miseries of his Majesty's + assassination, and of a second Saint Bartholomew, acted in the streets of + London. But then he stated it was the candid construction of the law of + England, that the worse the crime, the more strong should be the evidence. + Here was the case of accessories tried, whilst their principal—for + such he should call the Countess of Derby—was unconvicted and at + large; and for Doctor Oates, he had but spoke of matters which personally + applied to that noble lady, whose words, if she used such in passion, + touching aid which she expected in some treasonable matters from these + Peverils, and from her kinsmen, or her son's kinsmen, of the House of + Stanley, may have been but a burst of female resentment—<i>dulcis + Amaryllidis ira</i>, as the poet hath it. Who knoweth but Doctor Oates did + mistake—he being a gentleman of a comely countenance and easy + demeanour—this same rap with the fan as a chastisement for lack of + courage in the Catholic cause, when, peradventure, it was otherwise meant, + as Popish ladies will put, it is said, such neophytes and youthful + candidates for orders, to many severe trials. "I speak these things + jocularly," said the Judge, "having no wish to stain the reputation either + of the Honourable Countess or the Reverend Doctor; only I think the + bearing between them may have related to something short of high treason. + As for what the Attorney-General hath set forth of rescues and force, and + I wot not what, sure I am, that in a civil country, when such things + happen such things may be proved; and that you and I, gentlemen, are not + to take them for granted gratuitously. Touching this other prisoner, this + <i>Galfridus minimus</i>, he must needs say," he continued, "he could not + discover even a shadow of suspicion against him. Was it to be thought so + abortive a creature would thrust himself into depths of policy, far less + into stratagems of war? They had but to look at him to conclude the + contrary—the creature was, from his age, fitter for the grave than a + conspiracy—and by his size and appearance, for the inside of a + raree-show, than the mysteries of a plot." + </p> + <p> + The dwarf here broke in upon the Judge by force of screaming, to assure + him that he had been, simple as he sat there, engaged in seven plots in + Cromwell's time; and, as he proudly added, with some of the tallest men of + England. The matchless look and air with which Sir Geoffrey made this + vaunt, set all a-laughing, and increased the ridicule with which the whole + trial began to be received; so that it was amidst shaking sides and watery + eyes that a general verdict of Not Guilty was pronounced, and the + prisoners dismissed from the bar. + </p> + <p> + But a warmer sentiment awakened among those who saw the father and son + throw themselves into each other's arms, and, after a hearty embrace, + extend their hands to their poor little companion in peril, who, like a + dog, when present at a similar scene, had at last succeeded, by stretching + himself up to them and whimpering at the same time, to secure to himself a + portion of their sympathy and gratulation. + </p> + <p> + Such was the singular termination of this trial. Charles himself was + desirous to have taken considerable credit with the Duke of Ormond for the + evasion of the law, which had been thus effected by his private + connivance; and was both surprised and mortified at the coldness with + which his Grace replied, that he was rejoiced at the poor gentleman's + safety, but would rather have had the King redeem them like a prince, by + his royal prerogative of mercy, than that his Judge should convey them out + of the power of the law, like a juggler with his cups and balls. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0042" id="link2HCH0042"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XLII + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + ——On fair ground + I could beat forty of them! + —CORIOLANUS. +</pre> + <p> + It doubtless occurred to many that were present at the trial we have + described, that it was managed in a singular manner, and that the quarrel, + which had the appearance of having taken place between the Court and the + Crown Counsel, might proceed from some private understanding betwixt them, + the object of which was the miscarriage of the accusation. Yet though such + underhand dealing was much suspected, the greater part of the audience, + being well educated and intelligent, had already suspected the bubble of + the Popish Plot, and were glad to see that accusations, founded on what + had already cost so much blood, could be evaded in any way. But the crowd, + who waited in the Court of Requests, and in the hall, and without doors, + viewed in a very different light the combination, as they interpreted it, + between the Judge and the Attorney-General, for the escape of the + prisoners. + </p> + <p> + Oates, whom less provocation than he had that day received often induced + to behave like one frantic with passion, threw himself amongst the crowd, + and repeated till he was hoarse, "Theay are stoifling the Plaat!—theay + are straangling the Plaat!—My Laard Justice and Maaster Attarney are + in league to secure the escape of the plaaters and Paapists!" + </p> + <p> + "It is the device of the Papist whore of Portsmouth," said one. + </p> + <p> + "Of old Rowley himself," said another. + </p> + <p> + "If he could be murdered by himself, why hang those that would hinder it!" + exclaimed a third. + </p> + <p> + "He should be tried," said a fourth, "for conspiring his own death, and + hanged <i>in terrorem</i>." + </p> + <p> + In the meanwhile, Sir Geoffrey, his son, and their little companion, left + the hall, intending to go to Lady Peveril's lodgings, which had been + removed to Fleet Street. She had been relieved from considerable + inconvenience, as Sir Geoffrey gave Julian hastily to understand, by an + angel, in the shape of a young friend, and she now expected them doubtless + with impatience. Humanity, and some indistinct idea of having + unintentionally hurt the feelings of the poor dwarf, induced the honest + Cavalier to ask this unprotected being to go with them. "He knew Lady + Peveril's lodgings were but small," he said; "but it would be strange, if + there was not some cupboard large enough to accommodate the little + gentleman." + </p> + <p> + The dwarf registered this well-meant remark in his mind, to be the subject + of a proper explanation, along with the unhappy reminiscence of the + trencher-hornpipe, whenever time should permit an argument of such nicety. + </p> + <p> + And thus they sallied from the hall, attracting general observation, both + from the circumstances in which they had stood so lately, and from their + resemblance, as a wag of the Inner Temple expressed it, to the three + degrees of comparison, Large, Lesser, Least. But they had not passed far + along the street, when Julian perceived that more malevolent passions than + mere curiosity began to actuate the crowd which followed, and, as it were, + dogged their motions. + </p> + <p> + "There go the Papist cut-throats, tantivy for Rome!" said one fellow. + </p> + <p> + "Tantivy to Whitehall, you mean!" said another. + </p> + <p> + "Ah! the bloodthirsty villains!" cried a woman: "Shame, one of them should + be suffered to live, after poor Sir Edmondsbury's cruel murder." + </p> + <p> + "Out upon the mealy-mouthed Jury, that turned out the bloodhounds on an + innocent town!" cried a fourth. + </p> + <p> + In short, the tumult thickened, and the word began to pass among the more + desperate, "Lambe them, lads; lambe them!"—a cant phrase of the + time, derived from the fate of Dr. Lambe, an astrologer and quack, who was + knocked on the head by the rabble in Charles the First's time. + </p> + <p> + Julian began to be much alarmed at these symptoms of violence, and + regretted that they had not gone down to the city by water. It was now too + late to think of that mode of retreating, and he therefore requested his + father in a whisper, to walk steadily forward towards Charing Cross, + taking no notice of the insults which might be cast upon them, while the + steadiness of their pace and appearance might prevent the rabble from + resorting to actual violence. The execution of this prudent resolution was + prevented after they had passed the palace, by the hasty disposition of + the elder Sir Geoffrey, and the no less choleric temper of Galfridus + Minimus, who had a soul which spurned all odds, as well of numbers as of + size. + </p> + <p> + "Now a murrain take the knaves, with their hollowing and whooping," said + the large knight; "by this day, if I could but light on a weapon, I would + cudgel reason and loyalty into some of their carcasses!" + </p> + <p> + "And I also," said the dwarf, who was toiling to keep up with the longer + strides of his companions, and therefore spoke in a very phthisical tone.—"I + also will cudgel the plebeian knaves beyond measure—he!—hem!" + </p> + <p> + Among the crowd who thronged around them, impeded, and did all but assault + them, was a mischievous shoemaker's apprentice, who, hearing this unlucky + vaunt of the valorous dwarf, repaid it by flapping him on the head with a + boot which he was carrying home to the owner, so as to knock the little + gentleman's hat over his eyes. The dwarf, thus rendered unable to discover + the urchin that had given him the offence, flew with instinctive ambition + against the biggest fellow in the crowd, who received the onset with a + kick on the stomach, which made the poor little champion reel back to his + companions. They were now assaulted on all sides; but fortune complying + with the wish of Sir Geoffrey the larger, ordained that the scuffle should + happen near the booth of a cutler, from amongst whose wares, as they stood + exposed to the public, Sir Geoffrey Peveril snatched a broadsword, which + he brandished with the formidable address of one who had for many a day + been in the familiar practice of using such a weapon. Julian, while at the + same time he called loudly for a peace-officer, and reminded the + assailants that they were attacking inoffensive passengers, saw nothing + better for it than to imitate his father's example, and seized also one of + the weapons thus opportunely offered. + </p> + <p> + When they displayed these demonstrations of defence, the rush which the + rabble at first made towards them was so great as to throw down the + unfortunate dwarf, who would have been trampled to death in the scuffle, + had not his stout old namesake cleared the rascal crowd from about him + with a few flourishes of his weapon, and seizing on the fallen champion, + put him out of danger (except from missiles), by suddenly placing him on + the bulk-head, that is to say, the flat wooden roof of the cutler's + projecting booth. From the rusty ironware, which was displayed there, the + dwarf instantly snatched an old rapier and target, and covering himself + with the one, stood making passes with the other, at the faces and eyes of + the people in the street; so much delighted with his post of vantage, that + he called loudly to his friends who were skirmishing with the riotous on + more equal terms as to position, to lose no time in putting themselves + under his protection. But far from being in a situation to need his + assistance, the father and son might easily have extricated themselves + from the rabble by their own exertions, could they have thought of leaving + the mannikin in the forlorn situation, in which, to every eye but his own, + he stood like a diminutive puppet, tricked out with sword and target as a + fencing-master's sign. + </p> + <p> + Stones and sticks began now to fly very thick, and the crowd, + notwithstanding the exertions of the Peverils to disperse them with as + little harm as possible, seemed determined on mischief, when some + gentlemen who had been at the trial, understanding that the prisoners who + had been just acquitted were in danger of being murdered by the populace, + drew their swords, and made forward to effect their rescue, which was + completed by a small party of the King's Life Guards, who had been + despatched from their ordinary post of alarm, upon intelligence of what + was passing. When this unexpected reinforcement arrived, the old jolly + Knight at once recognised, amidst the cries of those who then entered upon + action, some of the sounds which had animated his more active years. + </p> + <p> + "Where be these cuckoldly Roundheads," cried some.—"Down with the + sneaking knaves!" cried others.—"The King and his friends, and the + devil a one else!" exclaimed a third set, with more oaths and d—n + me's, than, in the present more correct age, it is necessary to commit to + paper. + </p> + <p> + The old soldier, pricking up his ears like an ancient hunter at the cry of + the hounds, would gladly have scoured the Strand, with the charitable + purpose, now he saw himself so well supported, of knocking the London + knaves, who had insulted him, into twiggen bottles; but he was withheld by + the prudence of Julian, who, though himself extremely irritated by the + unprovoked ill-usage which they had received, saw himself in a situation + in which it was necessary to exercise more caution than vengeance. He + prayed and pressed his father to seek some temporary place of retreat from + the fury of the populace, while that prudent measure was yet in their + power. The subaltern officer, who commanded the party of the Life Guards, + exhorted the old Cavalier eagerly to the same sage counsel, using, as a + spice of compulsion, the name of the King; while Julian strongly urged + that of his mother. The old Knight looked at his blade, crimsoned with + cross-cuts and slashes which he had given to the most forward of the + assailants, with the eye of one not half sufficed. + </p> + <p> + "I would I had pinked one of the knaves at least—but I know not how + it was, when I looked on their broad round English faces, I shunned to use + my point, and only sliced the rogues a little." + </p> + <p> + "But the King's pleasure," said the officer, "is, that no tumult be + prosecuted." + </p> + <p> + "My mother," said Julian, "will die with fright, if the rumour of this + scuffle reaches her ere we see her." + </p> + <p> + "Ay, ay," said the Knight, "the King's Majesty and my good dame—well, + their pleasure be done, that's all I can say—Kings and ladies must + be obeyed. But which way to retreat, since retreat we must?" + </p> + <p> + Julian would have been at some loss to advise what course to take, for + everybody in the vicinity had shut up their shops, and chained their + doors, upon observing the confusion become so formidable. The poor cutler, + however, with whose goods they made so free, offered them an asylum on the + part of his landlord, whose house served as a rest for his shop, and only + intimated gently, he hoped the gentleman would consider him for the use of + his weapons. + </p> + <p> + Julian was hastily revolving whether they ought, in prudence, to accept + this man's invitation, aware, by experience, how many trepans, as they + were then termed, were used betwixt two contending factions, each too + inveterate to be very scrupulous of the character of fair play to an + enemy, when the dwarf, exerting his cracked voice to the uttermost, and + shrieking like an exhausted herald, from the exalted station which he + still occupied on the bulk-head, exhorted them to accept the offer of the + worthy man of the mansion. "He himself," he said, as he reposed himself + after the glorious conquest in which he had some share, "had been favoured + with a beatific vision, too splendid to be described to common and mere + mortal ears, but which had commanded him, in a voice to which his heart + had bounded as to a trumpet sound, to take refuge with the worthy person + of the house, and cause his friends to do so." + </p> + <p> + "Vision!" said the Knight of the Peak,—"sound of a trumpet!—the + little man is stark mad." + </p> + <p> + But the cutler, in great haste, intimated to them that their little friend + had received an intimation from a gentlewoman of his acquaintance, who + spoke to him from the window, while he stood on the bulk-head, that they + would find a safe retreat in his landlord's; and desiring them to attend + to two or three deep though distant huzzas, made them aware that the + rabble were up still, and would soon be upon them with renewed violence, + and increased numbers. + </p> + <p> + The father and son, therefore, hastily thanked the officer and his party, + as well as the other gentlemen who had volunteered in their assistance, + lifted little Sir Geoffrey Hudson from the conspicuous post which he had + so creditably occupied during the skirmish, and followed the footsteps of + the tenant of the booth, who conducted them down a blind alley and through + one or two courts, in case, as he said, any one might have watched where + they burrowed, and so into a back-door. This entrance admitted them to a + staircase carefully hung with straw mats to exclude damp, from the upper + step of which they entered upon a tolerably large withdrawing-room, hung + with coarse green serge edged with gilded leather, which the poorer or + more economical citizens at that time use instead of tapestry or + wainscoting. + </p> + <p> + Here the poor cutler received from Julian such a gratuity for the loan of + the swords, that he generously abandoned the property to the gentlemen who + had used them so well; "the rather," he said, "that he saw, by the way + they handed their weapons, that they were men of mettle, and tall + fellows." + </p> + <p> + Here the dwarf smiled on him courteously, and bowed, thrusting at the same + time, his hand into his pocket, which however, he withdrew carelessly + probably because he found he had not the means of making the small + donation which he had meditated. + </p> + <p> + The cutler proceeded to say, as he bowed and was about to withdraw, that + he saw there would be merry days yet in Old England, and that Bilboa + blades would fetch as good a price as ever. "I remember," he said, + "gentlemen, though I was then but a 'prentice, the demand for weapons in + the years forty-one and forty-two; sword blades were more in request than + toothpicks, and Old Ironsides, my master, took more for rascally Provant + rapiers, than I dare ask nowadays for a Toledo. But, to be sure, a man's + life then rested on the blade he carried; the Cavaliers and Roundheads + fought every day at the gates of Whitehall, as it is like, gentlemen, by + your good example, they may do again, when I shall be enabled to leave my + pitiful booth, and open a shop of better quality. I hope you will + recommend me, gentlemen, to your friends. I am always provided with ware + which a gentleman may risk his life on." + </p> + <p> + "Thank you, good friend," said Julian, "I prithee begone. I trust we shall + need thy ware no more for some time at least." + </p> + <p> + The cutler retired, while the dwarf hollowed after him downstairs, that he + would call on him soon, and equip himself with a longer blade, and one + more proper for action; although, he said, the little weapon he had did + well enough for a walking-sword, or in a skirmish with such <i>canaille</i> + as they had been engaged with. + </p> + <p> + The cutler returned at this summons, and agreed to pleasure the little man + with a weapon more suitable to his magnanimity; then, as if the thought + had suddenly occurred to him, he said, "But, gentlemen, it will be wild + work to walk with your naked swords through the Strand, and it can scarce + fail to raise the rabble again. If you please, while you repose yourselves + here, I can fit the blades with sheaths." + </p> + <p> + The proposal seemed so reasonable, that Julian and his father gave up + their weapons to the friendly cutler, an example which the dwarf followed, + after a moment's hesitation, not caring, as he magnificently expressed it, + to part so soon with the trusty friend which fortune had but the moment + before restored to his hand. The man retired with the weapons under his + arm; and, in shutting the door behind him, they heard him turn the key. + </p> + <p> + "Did you hear that?" said Sir Geoffrey to his son—"and we are + disarmed!" + </p> + <p> + Julian, without reply, examined the door, which was fast secured; and then + looked at the casements, which were at a storey's height from the ground, + and grated besides with iron. "I cannot think," he said, after a moment's + pause, "that the fellow means to trepan us; and, in any event, I trust we + should have no difficulty in forcing the door, or otherwise making escape. + But, before resorting to such violent measures, I think it is better to + give the rabble leisure to disperse, by waiting this man's return with our + weapons within a reasonable time, when, if he does not appear, I trust we + shall find little difficulty in extricating ourselves." As he spoke thus, + the hangings were pulled aside, and from a small door which was concealed + behind them, Major Bridgenorth entered the room. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0043" id="link2HCH0043"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XLIII + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + He came amongst them like a new raised spirit + To speak of dreadful judgments that impend, + And of the wrath to come. + —THE REFORMER. +</pre> + <p> + The astonishment of Julian at the unexpected apparition of Bridgenorth, + was instantly succeeded by apprehension of his father's violence, which he + had every reason to believe would break forth against one, whom he himself + could not but reverence on account of his own merits, as well as because + he was the father of Alice. The appearance of Bridgenorth was not however, + such as to awaken resentment. His countenance was calm, his step slow and + composed, his eye not without the indication of some deep-seated anxiety, + but without any expression either of anger or of triumph. "You are + welcome," he said, "Sir Geoffrey Peveril, to the shelter and hospitality + of this house; as welcome as you would have been in other days, when we + called each other neighbours and friends." + </p> + <p> + "Odzooks," said the old Cavalier; "and had I known it was thy house, man, + I would sooner had my heart's blood run down the kennel, than my foot + should have crossed your threshold—in the way of seeking safety, + that is." + </p> + <p> + "I forgive your inveteracy," said Major Bridgenorth, "on account of your + prejudices." + </p> + <p> + "Keep your forgiveness," answered the Cavalier, "until you are pardoned + yourself. By Saint George I have sworn, if ever I got my heels out of yon + rascally prison, whither I was sent much through your means, Master + Bridgenorth,—that you should pay the reckoning for my bad lodging.—I + will strike no man in his own house; but if you will cause the fellow to + bring back my weapon, and take a turn in that blind court there below, + along with me, you shall soon see what chance a traitor hath with a true + man, and a kennel-blooded Puritan with Peveril of the Peak." + </p> + <p> + Bridgenorth smiled with much composure. "When I was younger and more + warm-blooded," he replied, "I refused your challenge, Sir Geoffrey; it is + not likely I should now accept it, when each is within a stride of the + grave. I have not spared, and will not spare, my blood, when my country + wants it." + </p> + <p> + "That is when there is any chance of treason against the King," said Sir + Geoffrey. + </p> + <p> + "Nay, my father," said Julian, "let us hear Master Bridgenorth! We have + been sheltered in his house; and although we now see him in London, we + should remember that he did not appear against us this day, when perhaps + his evidence might have given a fatal turn to our situation." + </p> + <p> + "You are right, young man," said Bridgenorth; "and it should be some + pledge of my sincere goodwill, that I was this day absent from + Westminster, when a few words from my mouth had ended the long line of + Peveril of the Peak: it needed but ten minutes to walk to Westminster + Hall, to have ensured your condemnation. But could I have done this, + knowing, as I now know, that to thee, Julian Peveril, I owe the + extrication of my daughter—of my dearest Alice—the memory of + her departed mother—from the snares which hell and profligacy had + opened around her?" + </p> + <p> + "She is, I trust safe," said Peveril eagerly, and almost forgetting his + father's presence; "she is, I trust, safe, and in your own wardship?" + </p> + <p> + "Not in mine," said the dejected father; "but in that of one in whose + protection, next to that of Heaven, I can most fully confide." + </p> + <p> + "Are you sure—are you very sure of that?" repeated Julian eagerly. + "I found her under the charge of one to whom she had been trusted, and who + yet——" + </p> + <p> + "And who yet was the basest of women," answered Bridgenorth; "but he who + selected her for the charge was deceived in her character." + </p> + <p> + "Say rather you were deceived in his; remember that when we parted in + Moultrassie, I warned you of that Ganlesse—that——" + </p> + <p> + "I know your meaning," said Bridgenorth; "nor did you err in describing + him as a worldly-wise man. But he has atoned for his error by recovering + Alice from the dangers into which she has plunged when separated from you; + and besides, I have not thought meet again to entrust him with the charge + that is dearest to me." + </p> + <p> + "I thank God your eyes are thus far opened!" said Julian. + </p> + <p> + "This day will open them wide, or close them for ever," answered + Bridgenorth. + </p> + <p> + During this dialogue, which the speakers hurried through without attending + to the others who were present, Sir Geoffrey listened with surprise and + eagerness, endeavouring to catch something which should render their + conversation intelligible; but as he totally failed in gaining any such + key to their meaning, he broke in with,—"'Sblood and thunder, + Julian, what unprofitable gossip is this? What hast thou to do with this + fellow, more than to bastinado him, if you should think it worth while to + beat so old a rogue?" + </p> + <p> + "My dearest father," said Julian, "you know not this gentleman—I am + certain you do him injustice. My own obligations to him are many; and I am + sure when you come to know them——" + </p> + <p> + "I hope I shall die ere that moment come," said Sir Geoffrey; and + continued with increasing violence, "I hope in the mercy of Heaven, that I + shall be in the grave of my ancestors, ere I learn that my son—my + only son—the last hope of my ancient house—the last remnant of + the name of Peveril—hath consented to receive obligations from the + man on earth I am most bound to hate, were I not still more bound to + contemn him!—Degenerate dog-whelp!" he repeated with great + vehemence, "you colour without replying! Speak, and disown such disgrace; + or, by the God of my fathers——" + </p> + <p> + The dwarf suddenly stepped forward and called out, "Forbear!" with a voice + at once so discordant and commanding, that it sounded supernatural. "Man + of sin and pride," he said, "forbear; and call not the name of a holy God + to witness thine unhallowed resentments." + </p> + <p> + The rebuke so boldly and decidedly given, and the moral enthusiasm with + which he spoke, gave the despised dwarf an ascendancy for the moment over + the fiery spirit of his gigantic namesake. Sir Geoffrey Peveril eyed him + for an instant askance and shyly, as he might have done a supernatural + apparition, and then muttered, "What knowest thou of my cause of wrath?" + </p> + <p> + "Nothing," said the dwarf;—"nothing but this—that no cause can + warrant the oath thou wert about to swear. Ungrateful man! thou wert + to-day rescued from the devouring wrath of the wicked, by a marvellous + conjunction of circumstances—Is this a day, thinkest thou, on which + to indulge thine own hasty resentments?" + </p> + <p> + "I stand rebuked," said Sir Geoffrey, "and by a singular monitor—the + grasshopper, as the prayer-book saith, hath become a burden to me.—Julian, + I will speak to thee of these matters hereafter;—and for you, Master + Bridgenorth, I desire to have no farther communication with you, either in + peace or in anger. Our time passes fast, and I would fain return to my + family. Cause our weapons to be restored; unbar the doors, and let us part + without farther altercation, which can but disturb and aggravate our + spirits." + </p> + <p> + "Sir Geoffrey Peveril," said Bridgenorth, "I have no desire to vex your + spirit or my own; but, for thus soon dismissing you, that may hardly be, + it being a course inconsistent with the work which I have on hand." + </p> + <p> + "How, sir! Do you mean that we should abide here, whether with or against + our inclinations?" said the dwarf. "Were it not that I am laid under + charge to remain here, by one who hath the best right to command this poor + microcosm, I would show thee that bolts and bars are unavailing restraints + on such as I am." + </p> + <p> + "Truly," said Sir Geoffrey, "I think, upon an emergency, the little man + might make his escape through the keyhole." + </p> + <p> + Bridgenorth's face was moved into something like a smile at the swaggering + speech of the pigmy hero, and the contemptuous commentary of Sir Geoffrey + Peveril; but such an expression never dwelt on his features for two + seconds together, and he replied in these words:—"Gentlemen, each + and all of you must be fain to content yourselves. Believe me, no hurt is + intended towards you; on the contrary, your remaining here will be a means + of securing your safety, which would be otherwise deeply endangered. It + will be your own fault if a hair of your head is hurt. But the stronger + force is on my side; and, whatever harm you may meet with should you + attempt to break forth by violence, the blame must rest with yourselves. + It you will not believe me, I will permit Master Julian Peveril to + accompany me, where he shall see that I am provided fully with the means + of repressing violence." + </p> + <p> + "Treason!—treason!" exclaimed the old Knight—"Treason against + God and King Charles!—Oh, for one half-hour of the broadsword which + I parted with like an ass!" + </p> + <p> + "Hold, my father, I conjure you!" said Julian. "I will go with Master + Bridgenorth, since he requests it. I will satisfy myself whether there be + danger, and of what nature. It is possible I may prevail on him to desist + from some desperate measure, if such be indeed in agitation. Should it be + necessary, fear not that your son will behave as he ought to do." + </p> + <p> + "Do your pleasure, Julian," said his father; "I will confide in thee. But + if you betray my confidence, a father's curse shall cleave to you." + </p> + <p> + Bridgenorth now motioned to Peveril to follow him, and they passed through + the small door by which he entered. + </p> + <p> + The passage led to a vestibule or anteroom, in which several other doors + and passages seemed to centre. Through one of these Julian was conducted + by Bridgenorth, walking with silence and precaution, in obedience to a + signal made by his guide to that effect. As they advanced, he heard + sounds, like those of the human voice, engaged in urgent and emphatic + declamation. With slow and light steps Bridgenorth conducted him through a + door which terminated this passage; and as he entered a little gallery, + having a curtain in front, the sound of the preacher's voice—for + such it now seemed—became distinct and audible. + </p> + <p> + Julian now doubted not that he was in one of those conventicles, which, + though contrary to the existing laws, still continued to be regularly held + in different parts of London and the suburbs. Many of these, as frequented + by persons of moderate political principles, though dissenters from the + Church for conscience' sake, were connived at by the prudence or timidity + of the government. But some of them, in which assembled the fiercer and + more exalted sects of Independents, Anabaptists, Fifth-Monarchy men, and + other sectaries, whose stern enthusiasm had contributed so greatly to + effect the overthrow of the late King's throne, were sought after, + suppressed, and dispersed, whenever they could be discovered. + </p> + <p> + Julian was soon satisfied that the meeting into which he was thus secretly + introduced was one of the latter class; and, to judge by the violence of + the preacher, of the most desperate character. He was still more + effectually convinced of this, when, at a sign from Bridgenorth, he + cautiously unclosed a part of the curtain which hung before the gallery, + and thus, unseen himself, looked down on the audience, and obtained a view + of the preacher. + </p> + <p> + About two hundred persons were assembled beneath, in an area filled up + with benches, as if for the exercise of worship; and they were all of the + male sex, and well armed with pikes and muskets, as well as swords and + pistols. Most of them had the appearance of veteran soldiers, now past the + middle of life, yet retaining such an appearance of strength as might well + supply the loss of youthful agility. They stood, or sat, in various + attitudes of stern attention; and, resting on their spears and muskets, + kept their eyes firmly fixed on the preacher, who ended the violence of + his declamation by displaying from the pulpit a banner, on which was + represented a lion, with the motto, "<i>Vicit Leo ex tribu Judæ.</i>" + </p> + <p> + The torrent of mystical yet animating eloquence of the preacher—an + old grey-haired man, whom zeal seemed to supply with the powers of voice + and action, of which years had deprived him—was suited to the taste + of his audience, but could not be transferred to these pages without + scandal and impropriety. He menaced the rulers of England with all the + judgments denounced on those of Moab and Assyria—he called upon the + saints to be strong, to be up and doing; and promised those miracles + which, in the campaigns of Joshua, and his successors, the valiant Judges + of Israel, supplied all odds against the Amorites, Midianites, and + Philistines. He sounded trumpets, opened vials, broke seals, and denounced + approaching judgments under all the mystical signs of the Apocalypse. The + end of the world was announced, accompanied with all its preliminary + terrors. + </p> + <p> + Julian, with deep anxiety, soon heard enough to make him aware that the + meeting was likely to terminate in open insurrection, like that of the + Fifth-Monarchy men, under Venner, at an earlier period of Charles's reign; + and he was not a little concerned at the probability of Bridgenorth being + implicated in so criminal and desperate an undertaking. If he had retained + any doubts of the issue of the meeting, they must have been removed when + the preacher called on his hearers to renounce all expectation which had + hitherto been entertained of safety to the nation, from the execution of + the ordinary laws of the land. This, he said, was at best but a carnal + seeking after earthly aid—a going down to Egypt for help, which the + jealousy of their Divine Leader would resent as a fleeing to another rock, + and a different banner, from that which was this day displayed over them.—And + here he solemnly swung the bannered lion over their heads, as the only + sign under which they ought to seek for life and safety. He then proceeded + to insist, that recourse to ordinary justice was vain as well as sinful. + </p> + <p> + "The event of that day at Westminster," he said, "might teach them that + the man at Whitehall was even as the man his father;" and closed a long + tirade against the vices of the Court, with assurance "that Tophet was + ordained of old—for the King it was made hot." + </p> + <p> + As the preacher entered on a description of the approaching theocracy, + which he dared to prophesy, Bridgenorth, who appeared for a time to have + forgotten the presence of Julian, whilst with stern and fixed attention he + drunk in the words of the preacher, seemed suddenly to collect himself, + and, taking Julian by the hand, led him out of the gallery, of which he + carefully closed the door, into an apartment at no great distance. + </p> + <p> + When they arrived there, he anticipated the expostulations of Julian, by + asking him, in a tone of severe triumph, whether these men he had seen + were likely to do their work negligently, or whether it would not be + perilous to attempt to force their way from a house, when all the avenues + were guarded by such as he had now seen—men of war from their + childhood upwards. + </p> + <p> + "In the name of Heaven," said Julian, without replying to Bridgenorth's + question, "for what desperate purpose have you assembled so many desperate + men? I am well aware that your sentiments of religion are peculiar; but + beware how you deceive yourself—No views of religion can sanction + rebellion and murder; and such are the natural and necessary consequences + of the doctrine we have just heard poured into the ears of fanatical and + violent enthusiasts." + </p> + <p> + "My son," said Bridgenorth calmly, "in the days of my non-age, I thought + as you do. I deemed it sufficient to pay my tithes of cummin and aniseed—my + poor petty moral observances of the old law; and I thought I was heaping + up precious things, when they were in value no more than the husks of the + swine-trough. Praised be Heaven, the scales are fallen from mine eyes; and + after forty years' wandering in the desert of Sinai, I am at length + arrived in the Land of Promise—My corrupt human nature has left me—I + have cast my slough, and can now with some conscience put my hand to the + plough, certain that there is no weakness left in me where-through I may + look back. The furrows," he added, bending his brows, while a gloomy fire + filled his large eyes, "must be drawn long and deep, and watered by the + blood of the mighty." + </p> + <p> + There was a change in Bridgenorth's tone and manner, when he used these + singular expressions, which convinced Julian that his mind, which had + wavered for so many years between his natural good sense and the insane + enthusiasm of the time, had finally given way to the latter; and, sensible + of the danger in which the unhappy man himself, the innocent and beautiful + Alice, and his own father, were likely to be placed—to say nothing + of the general risk of the community by a sudden insurrection, he at the + same time felt that there was no chance of reasoning effectually with one, + who would oppose spiritual conviction to all arguments which reason could + urge against his wild schemes. To touch his feeling seemed a more probable + resource; and Julian therefore conjured Bridgenorth to think how much his + daughter's honour and safety were concerned in his abstaining from the + dangerous course which he meditated. "If you fall," he said, "must she not + pass under the power and guardianship of her uncle, whom you allow to have + shown himself capable of the grossest mistake in the choice of her female + protectress; and whom I believe, upon good grounds, to have made that + infamous choice with his eyes open?" + </p> + <p> + "Young man," answered Bridgenorth, "you make me feel like the poor bird, + around whose wing some wanton boy has fixed a line, to pull the struggling + wretch to earth at his pleasure. Know, since thou wilt play this cruel + part, and drag me down from higher contemplations, that she with whom + Alice is placed, and who hath in future full power to guide her motions, + and decide her fate, despite of Christian and every one else, is—I + will not tell thee who she is—Enough—no one—thou least + of all, needs to fear for her safety." + </p> + <p> + At this moment a side-door opened, and Christian himself came into the + apartment. He started and coloured when he saw Julian Peveril; then + turning to Bridgenorth with an assumed air of indifference, asked, "Is + Saul among the prophets?—Is a Peveril among the saints?" + </p> + <p> + "No, brother," replied Bridgenorth, "his time is not come more than thine + own—thou art too deep in the ambitious intrigues of manhood, and he + in the giddy passions of youth, to hear the still calm voice—You + will both hear it, as I trust and pray." + </p> + <p> + "Master Ganlesse, or Christian, or by whatever name you are called," said + Julian, "by whatever reasons you guide yourself in this most perilous + matter, <i>you</i> at least are not influenced by any idea of an immediate + divine command for commencing hostilities against the state. Leaving, + therefore, for the present, whatever subjects of discussion may be between + us, I implore you, as a man of shrewdness and sense, to join with me in + dissuading Master Bridgenorth from the fatal enterprise which he now + meditates." + </p> + <p> + "Young gentleman," said Christian, with great composure, "when we met in + the west, I was willing to have made a friend of you, but you rejected the + overture. You might, however, even then have seen enough of me to be + assured, that I am not likely to rush too rashly on any desperate + undertaking. As to this which lies before us, my brother Bridgenorth + brings to it the simplicity, though not the harmlessness of the dove, and + I the subtilty of the serpent. He hath the leading of saints who are moved + by the spirit; and I can add to their efforts a powerful body, who have + for their instigators the world, the devil, and the flesh." + </p> + <p> + "And can you," said Julian, looking at Bridgenorth, "accede to such an + unworthy union?" + </p> + <p> + "I unite not with them," said Bridgenorth; "but I may not, without guilt, + reject the aid which Providence sends to assist His servants. We are + ourselves few, though determined—Those whose swords come to help the + cutting down of the harvest, must be welcome—When their work is + wrought, they will be converted or scattered.—Have you been at York + Place, brother, with that unstable epicure? We must have his last + resolution, and that within an hour." + </p> + <p> + Christian looked at Julian, as if his presence prevented him from + returning an answer; upon which Bridgenorth arose, and taking the young + man by the arm, led him out of the apartment, into that in which they had + left his father; assuring him by the way, that determined and vigilant + guards were placed in every different quarter by which escape could be + effected, and that he would do well to persuade his father to remain a + quiet prisoner for a few hours. + </p> + <p> + Julian returned him no answer, and Bridgenorth presently retired, leaving + him alone with his father and Hudson. To their questions he could only + briefly reply, that he feared they were trepanned, since they were in the + house with at least two hundred fanatics, completely armed, and apparently + prepared for desperate enterprise. Their own want of arms precluded the + possibility of open violence; and however unpleasant it might be to remain + in such a condition, it seemed difficult, from the strength of the + fastenings at doors and windows, to attempt any secret escape without + instantaneous detection. + </p> + <p> + The valiant dwarf alone nursed hopes, with which he in vain endeavoured to + inspire his companions in affliction. "The fair one, whose eyes," he said, + "were like the twin stars of Leda"—for the little man was a great + admirer of lofty language—"had not invited him, the most devoted, + and, it might be, not the least favoured of her servants, into this place + as a harbour, in order that he might therein suffer shipwreck; and he + generously assured his friends, that in his safety they also should be + safe." + </p> + <p> + Sir Geoffrey, little cheered by this intimation, expressed his despair at + not being able to get the length of Whitehall, where he trusted to find as + many jolly Cavaliers as would help him to stifle the whole nest of wasps + in their hive; while Julian was of opinion that the best service he could + now render Bridgenorth, would be timeously to disclose his plot, and, if + possible, to send him at the same time warning to save his person. + </p> + <p> + But we must leave them to meditate over their plans at leisure; no one of + which, as they all depended on their previous escape from confinement, + seemed in any great chance of being executed. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0044" id="link2HCH0044"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XLIV + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + And some for safety took the dreadful leap; + Some for the voice of Heaven seem'd calling on them; + Some for advancement, or for lucre's sake— + I leap'd in frolic. + —THE DREAM. +</pre> + <p> + After a private conversation with Bridgenorth, Christian hastened to the + Duke of Buckingham's hotel, taking at the same time such a route as to + avoid meeting with any acquaintance. He was ushered into the apartment of + the Duke, whom he found cracking and eating filberts, with a flask of + excellent white wine at his elbow. "Christian," said his Grace, "come help + me to laugh—I have bit Sir Charles Sedley—flung him for a + thousand, by the gods!" + </p> + <p> + "I am glad at your luck, my Lord Duke," replied Christian; "but I am come + here on serious business." + </p> + <p> + "Serious?—why, I shall hardly be serious in my life again—ha, + ha, ha!—and for luck, it was no such thing—sheer wit, and + excellent contrivance; and but that I don't care to affront Fortune, like + the old Greek general, I might tell her to her face—In this thou + hadst no share. You have heard, Ned Christian, that Mother Cresswell is + dead?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, I did hear that the devil hath got his due," answered Christian. + </p> + <p> + "Well," said the Duke, "you are ungrateful; for I know you have been + obliged to her, as well as others. Before George, a most benevolent and + helpful old lady; and that she might not sleep in an unblest grave, I + betted—do you mark me—with Sedley, that I would write her + funeral sermon; that it should be every word in praise of her life and + conversation, that it should be all true, and yet that the diocesan should + be unable to lay his thumb on Quodling, my little chaplain, who should + preach it." + </p> + <p> + "I perfectly see the difficulty, my lord," said Christian, who well knew + that if he wished to secure attention from this volatile nobleman, he must + first suffer, nay, encourage him, to exhaust the topic, whatever it might + be, that had got temporary possession of his pineal gland. + </p> + <p> + "Why," said the Duke, "I had caused my little Quodling to go through his + oration thus—'That whatever evil reports had passed current during + the lifetime of the worthy matron whom they had restored to dust that day, + malice herself could not deny that she was born well, married well, lived + well, and died well; since she was born in Shadwell, married to Cresswell, + lived in Camberwell, and died in Bridewell.' Here ended the oration, and + with it Sedley's ambitious hopes of overreaching Buckingham—ha, ha, + ha!—And now, Master Christian, what are your commands for me + to-day?" + </p> + <p> + "First, to thank your Grace for being so attentive as to send so + formidable a person as Colonel Blood, to wait upon your poor friend and + servant. Faith, he took such an interest in my leaving town, that he + wanted to compel me to do it at point of fox, so I was obliged to spill a + little of his malapert blood. Your Grace's swordsmen have had ill luck of + late; and it is hard, since you always choose the best hands, and such + scrupleless knaves too." + </p> + <p> + "Come now, Christian," said the Duke, "do not thus exult over me; a great + man, if I may so call myself, is never greater than amid miscarriage. I + only played this little trick on you, Christian, to impress on you a + wholesome idea of the interest I take in your motions. The scoundrel's + having dared to draw upon you, is a thing not to be forgiven.—What! + injure my old friend Christian?" + </p> + <p> + "And why not," said Christian coolly, "if your old friend was so stubborn + as not to go out of town, like a good boy, when your Grace required him to + do so, for the civil purpose of entertaining his niece in his absence?" + </p> + <p> + "How—what!—how do you mean by <i>my</i> entertaining your + niece, Master Christian?" said the Duke. "She was a personage far beyond + my poor attentions, being destined, if I recollect aright, to something + like royal favour." + </p> + <p> + "It was her fate, however, to be the guest of your Grace's convent for a + brace of days, or so. Marry, my lord, the father confessor was not at + home, and—for convents have been scaled of late—returned not + till the bird was flown." + </p> + <p> + "Christian, thou art an old reynard—I see there is no doubling with + thee. It was thou, then, that stole away my pretty prize, but left me + something so much prettier in my mind, that, had it not made itself wings + to fly away with, I would have placed it in a cage of gold. Never be + downcast, man; I forgive thee—I forgive thee." + </p> + <p> + "Your Grace is of a most merciful disposition, especially considering it + is I who have had the wrong; and sages have said, that he who doth the + injury is less apt to forgive than he who only sustains it." + </p> + <p> + "True, true, Christian," said the Duke, "which, as you say, is something + quite new, and places my clemency in a striking point of view. Well, then, + thou forgiven man, when shall I see my Mauritanian Princess again?" + </p> + <p> + "Wherever I am certain that a quibble, and a carwhichit, for a play or a + sermon, will not banish her from your Grace's memory." + </p> + <p> + "Not all the wit of South, or of Etherege," said Buckingham hastily, "to + say nothing of my own, shall in future make me oblivious of what I owe the + Morisco Princess." + </p> + <p> + "Yet, to leave the fair lady out of thought for a little while—a + very little while," said Christian, "since I swear that in due time your + Grace shall see her, and know in her the most extraordinary woman that the + age has produced—to leave her, I say out of sight for a little + while, has your Grace had late notice of your Duchess's health?" + </p> + <p> + "Health," said the Duke. "Umph—no—nothing particular. She has + been ill—but——" + </p> + <p> + "She is no longer so," subjoined Christian; "she died in Yorkshire + forty-eight hours since." + </p> + <p> + "Thou must deal with the devil," said the Duke. + </p> + <p> + "It would ill become one of my name to do so," replied Christian. "But in + the brief interval, since your Grace hath known of an event which hath not + yet reached the public ear, you have, I believe, made proposals to the + King for the hand of the Lady Anne, second daughter of the Duke of York, + and your Grace's proposals have been rejected." + </p> + <p> + "Fiends and firebrands, villain!" said the Duke, starting up and seizing + Christian by the collar; "who hath told thee that?" + </p> + <p> + "Take your hand from my cloak, my Lord Duke, and I may answer you," said + Christian. "I have a scurvy touch of old puritanical humour about me. I + abide not the imposition of hands—take off your grasp from my cloak, + or I will find means to make you unloose it." + </p> + <p> + The Duke, who had kept his right hand on his dagger-hilt while he held + Christian's collar with his left, unloosed it as he spoke, but slowly, and + as one who rather suspends than abandons the execution of some hasty + impulse; while Christian, adjusting his cloak with perfect composure, + said, "Soh—my cloak being at liberty, we speak on equal terms. I + come not to insult your Grace, but to offer you vengeance for the insult + you have received." + </p> + <p> + "Vengeance!" said the Duke—"It is the dearest proffer man can + present to me in my present mood. I hunger for vengeance—thirst for + vengeance—could die to ensure vengeance!—-'Sdeath!" he + continued, walking up and down the large apartment with the most + unrestrained and violent agitation; "I have chased this repulse out of my + brain with ten thousand trifles, because I thought no one knew it. But it + is known, and to thee, the very common-sewer of Court-secrets—the + honour of Villiers is in thy keeping, Ned Christian! Speak, thou man of + wiles and of intrigue—on whom dost thou promise the vengeance? + Speak! and if thy answers meet my desires, I will make a bargain with thee + as willingly as with thy master, Satan himself." + </p> + <p> + "I will not be," said Christian, "so unreasonable in my terms as stories + tell of the old apostate; I will offer your Grace, as he might do, + temporal prosperity and revenge, which is his frequent recruiting money, + but I leave it to yourself to provide, as you may be pleased, for your + future salvation." + </p> + <p> + The Duke, gazing upon him fixedly and sadly, replied, "I would to God, + Christian, that I could read what purpose of damnable villainy thou hast + to propose to me in thy countenance, without the necessity of thy using + words!" + </p> + <p> + "Your Grace can but try a guess," said Christian, calmly smiling. + </p> + <p> + "No," replied the Duke, after gazing at him again for the space of a + minute; "thou art so deeply dyed a hypocrite, that thy mean features, and + clear grey eye, are as likely to conceal treason, as any petty scheme of + theft or larceny more corresponding to your degree." + </p> + <p> + "Treason, my lord!" echoed Christian; "you may have guessed more nearly + than you were aware of. I honour your Grace's penetration." + </p> + <p> + "Treason?" echoed the Duke. "Who dare name such a crime to me?" + </p> + <p> + "If a name startles your Grace, you may call it vengeance—vengeance + on the cabal of councillors, who have ever countermined you, in spite of + your wit and your interest with the King.—Vengeance on Arlington, + Ormond—on Charles himself." + </p> + <p> + "No, by Heaven," said the Duke, resuming his disordered walk through the + apartment—"Vengeance on these rats of the Privy Council,—come + at it as you will. But the King!—never—never. I have provoked + him a hundred times, where he has stirred me once. I have crossed his path + in state intrigue—rivalled him in love—had the advantage in + both,—and, d—n it, he has forgiven me! If treason would put me + in his throne, I have no apology for it—it were worse than bestial + ingratitude." + </p> + <p> + "Nobly spoken, my lord," said Christian; "and consistent alike with the + obligations under which your Grace lies to Charles Stewart, and the sense + you have ever shown of them.—But it signifies not. If your Grace + patronise not our enterprise, there is Shaftesbury—there is Monmouth——" + </p> + <p> + "Scoundrel!" exclaimed the Duke, even more vehemently agitated than + before, "think you that you shall carry on with others an enterprise which + I have refused?—No, by every heathen and every Christian god!—Hark + ye, Christian, I will arrest you on the spot—I will, by gods and + devils, and carry you to unravel your plot at Whitehall." + </p> + <p> + "Where the first words I speak," answered the imperturbable Christian, + "will be to inform the Privy Council in what place they may find certain + letters, wherewith your Grace has honoured your poor vassal, containing, + as I think, particulars which his Majesty will read with more surprise + than pleasure." + </p> + <p> + "'Sdeath, villain!" said the Duke, once more laying his hand on his + poniard-hilt, "thou hast me again at advantage. I know not why I forbear + to poniard you where you stand!" + </p> + <p> + "I might fall, my Lord Duke," said Christian, slightly colouring, and + putting his right hand into his bosom, "though not, I think, unavenged—for + I have not put my person into this peril altogether without means of + defence. I might fall, but, alas! your Grace's correspondence is in hands, + which, by that very act, would be rendered sufficiently active in handing + them to the King and the Privy Council. What say you to the Moorish + Princess, my Lord Duke? What if I have left her executrix of my will, with + certain instructions how to proceed if I return not unharmed from York + Place? Oh, my lord, though my head is in the wolf's mouth, I was not goose + enough to place it there without settling how many carabines should be + fired on the wolf, so soon as my dying cackle was heard.—Pshaw, my + Lord Duke! you deal with a man of sense and courage, yet you speak to him + as a child and a coward." + </p> + <p> + The Duke threw himself into a chair, fixed his eyes on the ground, and + spoke without raising them. "I am about to call Jerningham," he said; "but + fear nothing—it is only for a draught of wine—That stuff on + the table may be a vehicle of filberts, and walnuts, but not for such + communications as yours.—Bring me champagne," he said to the + attendant who answered to his summons. + </p> + <p> + The domestic returned, and brought a flask of champagne, with two large + silver cups. One of them he filled for Buckingham, who, contrary to the + usual etiquette, was always served first at home, and then offered the + other to Christian, who declined to receive it. + </p> + <p> + The Duke drank off the large goblet which was presented to him, and for a + moment covered his forehead with the palm of his hand; then instantly + withdrew it, and said, "Christian, speak your errand plainly. We know each + other. If my reputation be in some degree in your hands, you are well + aware that your life is in mine. Sit down," he said, taking a pistol from + his bosom and laying it on the table—"Sit down, and let me hear your + proposal." + </p> + <p> + "My lord," said Christian, smiling, "I shall produce no such ultimate + argument on my part, though possibly, in time of need, I may not be found + destitute of them. But my defence is in the situation of things, and in + the composed view which, doubtless, your Majesty will take of them." + </p> + <p> + "Majesty!" repeated the Duke—"My good friend Christian, you have + kept company with the Puritans so long, that you confuse the ordinary + titles of the Court." + </p> + <p> + "I know not how to apologise," said Christian, "unless your Grace will + suppose that I spoke by prophecy." + </p> + <p> + "Such as the devil delivered to Macbeth," said the Duke—again paced + the chamber, and again seated himself, and said, "Be plain, Christian—speak + out at once, and manfully, what is it you intend?" + </p> + <p> + "<i>I</i>," said Christian—"What should I do?—I can do nothing + in such a matter; but I thought it right that your Grace should know that + the godly of this city"—(he spoke the word with a kind of ironical + grin)—"are impatient of inactivity, and must needs be up and doing. + My brother Bridgenorth is at the head of all old Weiver's congregation; + for you must know, that, after floundering from one faith to another, he + hath now got beyond ordinances, and is become a Fifth-Monarchy man. He has + nigh two hundred of Weiver's people, fully equipped, and ready to fall on; + and, with slight aid from your Grace's people, they must carry Whitehall, + and make prisoners of all within it." + </p> + <p> + "Rascal!" said the Duke, "and is it to a Peer of England you make this + communication?" + </p> + <p> + "Nay," answered Christian, "I admit it would be extreme folly in your + Grace to appear until all is over. But let me give Blood and the others a + hint on your part. There are the four Germans also—right + Knipperdolings and Anabaptists—will be specially useful. You are + wise, my lord, and know the value of a corps of domestic gladiators, as + well as did Octavius, Lepidus, and Anthony, when, by such family forces, + they divided the world by indenture tripartite." + </p> + <p> + "Stay, stay," said the Duke. "Even if these bloodhounds were to join with + you—not that I would permit it without the most positive assurances + for the King's personal safety—but say the villains were to join, + what hope have you of carrying the Court?" + </p> + <p> + "Bully Tom Armstrong,[*] my lord, hath promised his interest with the Life + Guards. Then there are my Lord Shaftesbury's brisk boys in the city—thirty + thousand on the holding up a finger." + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +[*] Thomas, or Sir Thomas Armstrong, a person who had distinguished + himself in youth by duels and drunken exploits. He was + particularly connected with the Duke of Monmouth, and was said to + be concerned in the Rye-House Plot, for which he suffered capital + punishment, 20th June 1684. +</pre> + <p> + "Let him hold up both hands, and if he count a hundred for each finger," + said the Duke, "it will be more than I expect. You have not spoken to + him?" + </p> + <p> + "Surely not till your Grace's pleasure was known. But, if he is not + applied to, there is the Dutch train, Hans Snorehout's congregation, in + the Strand—there are the French Protestants in Piccadilly—there + are the family of Levi in Lewkenor's Lane—the Muggletonians in + Thames Street——" + </p> + <p> + "Ah, faugh!—Out upon them—out upon them!—How the knaves + will stink of cheese and tobacco when they come upon action!—they + will drown all the perfumes in Whitehall. Spare me the detail; and let me + know, my dearest Ned, the sum total of thy most odoriferous forces." + </p> + <p> + "Fifteen hundred men, well armed," said Christian, "besides the rabble + that will rise to a certainty—they have already nearly torn to + pieces the prisoners who were this day acquitted on account of the Plot." + </p> + <p> + "All, then, I understand.—And now, hark ye, most Christian + Christian," said he, wheeling his chair full in front of that on which his + agent was seated, "you have told me many things to-day—Shall I be + equally communicative? Shall I show you that my accuracy of information + matches yours? Shall I tell you, in a word, why you have at once resolved + to push every one, from the Puritan to the free-thinker, upon a general + attack of the Palace of Whitehall, without allowing me, a peer of the + realm, time either to pause upon or to prepare for a step so desperate? + Shall I tell you why you would lead or drive, seduce or compel me, into + countenancing your measures?" + </p> + <p> + "My lord, if you please to form a guess," said Christian, "I will answer + with all sincerity, if you have assigned the right cause." + </p> + <p> + "The Countess of Derby is this day arrived, and attends the Court this + evening, with hopes of the kindest reception. She may be surprised amid + the mêlée?—Ha! said I not right, Master Christian? You, who pretend + to offer me revenge, know yourself its exquisite sweetness." + </p> + <p> + "I would not presume," said Christian, half smiling, "to offer your Grace + a dish without acting as your taster as well as purveyor." + </p> + <p> + "That's honestly said," said the Duke. "Away then, my friend. Give Blood + this ring—he knows it, and knows how to obey him who bears it. Let + him assemble my gladiators, as thou dost most wittily term my <i>coup + jarrets</i>. The old scheme of the German music may be resorted to, for I + think thou hast the instruments ready. But take notice, I know nothing + on't; and Rowley's person must be safe—I will hang and burn on all + hands if a hair of his black periwig[*] be but singed.—Then what is + to follow—a Lord Protector of the realm—or stay—Cromwell + has made the word somewhat slovenly and unpopular—a Lord Lieutenant + of the Kingdom?—The patriots who take it on themselves to avenge the + injustice done to the country, and to remove evil counsellors from before + the King's throne, that it may be henceforward established in + righteousness—so I think the rubric runs—cannot fail to make a + fitting choice." + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +[*] Charles, to suit his dark complexion, always wore a black peruke. + He used to say of the players, that if they wished to represent a + villain on the stage, "Oddsfish, they always clapp'd on him a + black periwig, whereas the greatest rogue in England [meaning, + probably, Dr. Oates] wears a white one."—<i>See CIBBER's Apology</i>. +</pre> + <p> + "They cannot, my Lord Duke," said Christian, "since there is but one man + in the three kingdoms on whom that choice can possibly fall." + </p> + <p> + "I thank you Christian," said his Grace; "and I trust you. Away, and make + all ready. Be assured your services shall not be forgot. We will have you + near to us." + </p> + <p> + "My Lord Duke," said Christian, "you bind me doubly to you. But remember + that as your Grace is spared any obnoxious proceedings which may befall in + the way of military execution, or otherwise, so it will be advisable that + you hold yourself in preparation, upon a moment's notice, to put yourself + at the head of a band of honourable friends and allies, and come presently + to the palace, where you will be received by the victors as a commander, + and by the vanquished as a preserver." + </p> + <p> + "I conceive you—I conceive you. I will be in prompt readiness," said + the Duke. + </p> + <p> + "Ay, my lord," continued Christian; "and for Heaven's sake, let none of + those toys, which are the very Delilahs of your imagination, come across + your Grace this evening, and interfere with the execution of this sublime + scheme." + </p> + <p> + "Why, Christian, dost think me mad?" was his Grace's emphatic reply. "It + is you who linger, when all should be ordered for a deed so daring. Go + then.—But hark ye, Ned; ere you go, tell me when I shall again see + yonder thing of fire and air—yon Eastern Peri, that glides into + apartments by the keyhole, and leaves them through the casement—yon + black-eyed houri of the Mahometan paradise—when, I say, shall I see + her once more?" + </p> + <p> + "When your Grace has the truncheon of Lord Lieutenant of the Kingdom," + said Christian, and left the apartment. + </p> + <p> + Buckingham stood fixed in contemplation for a moment after he was gone. + "Should I have done this?" he said, arguing the matter with himself; "or + had I the choice rather of doing aught else? Should I not hasten to the + Court, and make Charles aware of the treason which besets him? I will, by + Heaven?—Here, Jerningham, my coach, with the despatch of light!—I + will throw myself at his feet, and tell him of all the follies which I + have dreamed of with this Christian.—And then he will laugh at me, + and spurn me.—No, I have kneeled to him to-day already, and my + repulse was nothing gentle. To be spurned once in the sun's daily round is + enough for Buckingham." + </p> + <p> + Having made this reflection, he seated himself, and began hastily to mark + down the young nobles and gentlemen of quality, and others, their very + ignoble companions, who he supposed might be likely to assume him for + their leader in any popular disturbance. He had nearly completed it, when + Jerningham entered, to say the coach would be ready in an instant, and to + bring his master's sword, hat, and cloak. + </p> + <p> + "Let the coachman draw off," said the Duke, "but be in readiness. And send + to the gentlemen thou wilt find named in this list; say I am but ill at + ease, and wish their company to a light collation. Let instant expedition + be made, and care not for expense; you will find most of them at the Club + House in Fuller's Rents."[*] + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +[*] The place of meeting of the Green Ribbon Club. "Their place of + meeting," says Roger North, "was in a sort of Carrefour at + Chancery Lance, in a centre of business and company most proper + for such anglers of fools. The house was double balconied in + front, as may yet be seen, for the clubbers to issue forth <i>in + fresco</i>, with hats and no perukes, pipes in their mouths, merry + faces, and dilated throats for vocal encouragement of the + canaglia below on usual and unusual occasions." +</pre> + <p> + The preparations for festivity were speedily made, and the intended + guests, most of them persons who were at leisure for any call that + promised pleasure, though sometimes more deaf to those of duty, began + speedily to assemble. There were many youths of the highest rank, and with + them, as is usual in those circles, many of a different class, whom + talents, or impudence, or wit, or a turn for gambling, had reared up into + companions for the great and the gay. The Duke of Buckingham was a general + patron of persons of this description; and a numerous attendance took + place on the present occasion. + </p> + <p> + The festivity was pursued with the usual appliances of wine, music, and + games of hazard; with which, however, there mingled in that period much + more wit, and a good deal more gross profligacy of conversation, than the + talents of the present generation can supply, or their taste would permit. + </p> + <p> + The Duke himself proved the complete command which he possessed over his + versatile character, by maintaining the frolic, the laugh, and the jest, + while his ear caught up, and with eagerness, the most distant sounds, as + intimating the commencement of Christian's revolutionary project. Such + sounds were heard from time to time, and from time to time they died away, + without any of those consequences which Buckingham expected. + </p> + <p> + At length, and when it was late in the evening, Jerningham announced + Master Chiffinch from the Court; and that worthy personage followed the + annunciation. + </p> + <p> + "Strange things have happened, my Lord Duke," he said; "your presence at + Court is instantly required by his Majesty." + </p> + <p> + "You alarm me," said Buckingham, standing up. "I hope nothing has happened—I + hope there is nothing wrong—I hope his Majesty is well?" + </p> + <p> + "Perfectly well," said Chiffinch; "and desirous to see your Grace without + a moment's delay." + </p> + <p> + "This is sudden," said the Duke. "You see I have had merry fellows about + me, and am scarce in case to appear, Chiffinch." + </p> + <p> + "Your Grace seems to be in very handsome plight," said Chiffinch; "and you + know his Majesty is gracious enough to make allowances." + </p> + <p> + "True," said the Duke, not a little anxious in his mind, touching the + cause of this unexpected summons—"True—his Majesty is most + gracious—I will order my coach." + </p> + <p> + "Mine is below," replied the royal messenger; "it will save time, if your + Grace will condescend to use it." + </p> + <p> + Forced from every evasion, Buckingham took a goblet from the table, and + requested his friends to remain at his palace so long as they could find + the means of amusement there. He expected, he said, to return almost + immediately; if not, he would take farewell of them with his usual toast, + "May all of us that are not hanged in the interval, meet together again + here on the first Monday of next month." + </p> + <p> + This standing toast of the Duke bore reference to the character of several + of his guests; but he did not drink it on the present occasion without + some anticipation concerning his own fate, in case Christian had betrayed + him. He hastily made some addition to his dress, and attended Chiffinch in + the chariot to Whitehall. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0045" id="link2HCH0045"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XLV + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + High feasting was there there—the gilded roofs + Rung to the wassail-health—the dancer's step + Sprung to the chord responsive—the gay gamester + To fate's disposal flung his heap of gold, + And laugh'd alike when it increased or lessen'd: + Such virtue hath court-air to teach us patience + Which schoolmen preach in vain. + —WHY COME YE NOT TO COURT? +</pre> + <p> + Upon the afternoon of this eventful day, Charles held his Court in the + Queen's apartments, which were opened at a particular hour to invited + guests of a certain lower degree, but accessible without restriction to + the higher classes of nobility who had from birth, and to the courtiers + who held by office the privilege of the <i>entrée</i>. + </p> + <p> + It was one part of Charles's character, which unquestionably rendered him + personally popular, and postponed to a subsequent reign the precipitation + of his family from the throne, that he banished from his Court many of the + formal restrictions with which it was in other reigns surrounded. He was + conscious of the good-natured grace of his manners, and trusted to it, + often not in vain, to remove evil impressions arising from actions, which + he was sensible could not be justified on the grounds of liberal or + national policy. + </p> + <p> + In the daytime the King was commonly seen in the public walks alone, or + only attended by one or two persons; and his answer to the remonstrance of + his brother, on the risk of thus exposing his person, is well known:—"Believe + me, James," he said, "no one will murder <i>me</i>, to make <i>you</i> + King." + </p> + <p> + In the same manner, Charles's evenings, unless such as were destined to + more secret pleasures, were frequently spent amongst all who had any + pretence to approach a courtly circle; and thus it was upon the night + which we are treating of. Queen Catherine, reconciled or humbled to her + fate, had long ceased to express any feelings of jealousy, nay, seemed so + absolutely dead to such a passion, that she received at her drawing-room, + without scruple, and even with encouragement, the Duchesses of Portsmouth + and Cleveland, and others, who enjoyed, though in a less avowed character, + the credit of having been royal favourites. Constraint of every kind was + banished from a circle so composed, and which was frequented at the same + time, if not by the wisest, at least by the wittiest courtiers, who ever + assembled round a monarch, and who, as many of them had shared the wants, + and shifts, and frolics of his exile, had then acquired a sort of + prescriptive licence, which the good-natured prince, when he attained his + period of prosperity, could hardly have restrained had it suited his + temper to do so. This, however, was the least of Charles's thoughts. His + manners were such as secured him from indelicate obtrusion; and he sought + no other protection from over-familiarity, than what these and his ready + wit afforded him. + </p> + <p> + On the present occasion, he was peculiarly disposed to enjoy the scene of + pleasure which had been prepared. The singular death of Major Coleby, + which, taking place in his own presence, had proclaimed, with the voice of + a passing bell, the ungrateful neglect of the Prince for whom he had + sacrificed everything, had given Charles much pain. But, in his own + opinion at least, he had completely atoned for this negligence by the + trouble which he had taken for Sir Geoffrey Peveril and his son, whose + liberation he looked upon not only as an excellent good deed in itself, + but, in spite of the grave rebuke of Ormond, as achieved in a very + pardonable manner, considering the difficulties with which he was + surrounded. He even felt a degree of satisfaction on receiving + intelligence from the city that there had been disturbances in the + streets, and that some of the more violent fanatics had betaken themselves + to their meeting-houses, upon sudden summons, to inquire, as their + preachers phrased it, into the causes of Heaven's wrath, and into the + backsliding of the Court, lawyers, and jury, by whom the false and bloody + favourers of the Popish Plot were screened and cloaked from deserved + punishment. + </p> + <p> + The King, we repeat, seemed to hear these accounts with pleasure, even + when he was reminded of the dangerous and susceptible character of those + with whom such suspicions originated. "Will any one now assert," he said, + with self-complacence, "that I am so utterly negligent of the interest of + friends?—You see the peril in which I place myself, and even the + risk to which I have exposed the public peace, to rescue a man whom I have + scarce seen for twenty years, and then only in his buff-coat and + bandoleers, with other Train-Band officers who kissed hands upon the + Restoration. They say Kings have long hands—I think they have as + much occasion for long memories, since they are expected to watch over and + reward every man in England, who hath but shown his goodwill by crying + 'God save the King!'" + </p> + <p> + "Nay, the rogues are even more unreasonable still," said Sedley; "for + every knave of them thinks himself entitled to your Majesty's protection + in a good cause, whether he has cried God save the King or no." + </p> + <p> + The King smiled, and turned to another part of the stately hall, where + everything was assembled which could, according to the taste of the age, + make the time glide pleasantly away. + </p> + <p> + In one place, a group of the young nobility, and of the ladies of the + Court, listened to the reader's acquaintance Empson, who was accompanying + with his unrivalled breathings on the flute, a young siren, who, while her + bosom palpitated with pride and with fear, warbled to the courtly and + august presence the beautiful air beginning— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "Young I am, and yet unskill'd, + How to make a lover yield," &c. +</pre> + <p> + She performed her task in a manner so corresponding with the strains of + the amatory poet, and the voluptuous air with which the words had been + invested by the celebrated Purcel, that the men crowded around in + ecstasies, while most of the ladies thought it proper either to look + extremely indifferent to the words she sung, or to withdraw from the + circle as quietly as possible. To the song succeeded a concerto, performed + by a select band of most admirable musicians, which the King, whose taste + was indisputable, had himself selected. + </p> + <p> + At other tables in the apartment, the elder courtiers worshipped Fortune, + at the various fashionable games of ombre, quadrille, hazard, and the + like; while heaps of gold which lay before the players, augmented or + dwindled with every turn of a card or cast of a die. Many a year's rent of + fair estates was ventured upon the main or the odds; which, spent in the + old deserted manor-house, had repaired the ravages of Cromwell upon its + walls, and replaced the sources of good housekeeping and hospitality, + that, exhausted in the last age by fine and sequestration, were now in a + fair way of being annihilated by careless prodigality. Elsewhere, under + cover of observing the gamester, or listening to the music, the + gallantries of that all-licensed age were practised among the gay and + fair, closely watched the whilst by the ugly or the old, who promised + themselves at least the pleasure of observing, and it may be that of + proclaiming, intrigues in which they could not be sharers. + </p> + <p> + From one table to another glided the merry Monarch, exchanging now a + glance with a Court beauty, now a jest with a Court wit, now beating time + to the music, and anon losing or winning a few pieces of gold on the + chance of the game to which he stood nearest;—the most amiable of + voluptuaries—the gayest and best-natured of companions—the man + that would, of all others, have best sustained his character, had life + been a continued banquet, and its only end to enjoy the passing hour, and + send it away as pleasantly as might be. + </p> + <p> + But Kings are least of all exempted from the ordinary lot of humanity; and + Seged of Ethiopia is, amongst monarchs, no solitary example of the vanity + of reckoning on a day or an hour of undisturbed serenity. An attendant on + the Court announced suddenly to their Majesties that a lady, who would + only announce herself as a Peeress of England, desired to be admitted into + the presence. + </p> + <p> + The Queen said, hastily, it was <i>impossible</i>. No peeress, without + announcing her title, was entitled to the privilege of her rank. + </p> + <p> + "I could be sworn," said a nobleman in attendance, "that it is some whim + of the Duchess of Newcastle." + </p> + <p> + The attendant who brought the message, said that he did indeed believe it + to be the Duchess, both from the singularity of the message, and that the + lady spoke with somewhat a foreign accent. + </p> + <p> + "In the name of madness, then," said the King, "let us admit her. Her + Grace is an entire raree-show in her own person—a universal + masquerade—indeed a sort of private Bedlam-hospital, her whole ideas + being like so many patients crazed upon the subjects of love and + literature, who act nothing in their vagaries, save Minerva, Venus, and + the nine Muses." + </p> + <p> + "Your Majesty's pleasure must always supersede mine," said the Queen. "I + only hope I shall not be expected to entertain so fantastic a personage. + The last time she came to Court, Isabella"—(she spoke to one of her + Portuguese ladies of honour)—"you had not returned from our lovely + Lisbon!—her Grace had the assurance to assume a right to bring a + train-bearer into my apartment; and when this was not allowed, what then, + think you, she did?—even caused her train to be made so long, that + three mortal yards of satin and silver remained in the antechamber, + supported by four wenches, while the other end was attached to her Grace's + person, as she paid her duty at the upper end of the presence-room. Full + thirty yards of the most beautiful silk did her Grace's madness employ in + this manner." + </p> + <p> + "And most beautiful damsels they were who bore this portentous train," + said the King—"a train never equalled save by that of the great + comet in sixty-six. Sedley and Etherege told us wonders of them; for it is + one advantage of this new fashion brought up by the Duchess, that a matron + may be totally unconscious of the coquetry of her train and its + attendants." + </p> + <p> + "Am I to understand, then, your Majesty's pleasure is, that the lady is to + be admitted?" said the usher. + </p> + <p> + "Certainly," said the King; "that is, if the incognita be really entitled + to the honour.—It may be as well to inquire her title—there + are more madwomen abroad than the Duchess of Newcastle. I will walk into + the anteroom myself, and receive your answer." + </p> + <p> + But ere Charles had reached the lower end of the apartment in his progress + to the anteroom, the usher surprised the assembly by announcing a name + which had not for many a year been heard in these courtly halls—"the + Countess of Derby!" + </p> + <p> + Stately and tall, and still, at an advanced period of life, having a + person unbroken by years, the noble lady advanced towards her Sovereign, + with a step resembling that with which she might have met an equal. There + was indeed nothing in her manner that indicated either haughtiness or + assumption unbecoming that presence; but her consciousness of wrongs, + sustained from the administration of Charles, and of the superiority of + the injured party over those from whom, or in whose name, the injury had + been offered, gave her look dignity, and her step firmness. She was + dressed in widow's weeds, of the same fashion which were worn at the time + her husband was brought to the scaffold; and which, in the thirty years + subsequent to that event, she had never permitted her tirewoman to alter. + </p> + <p> + The surprise was no pleasing one to the King; and cursing in his heart the + rashness which had allowed the lady entrance on the gay scene in which + they were engaged, he saw at the same time the necessity of receiving her + in a manner suitable to his own character, and her rank in the British + Court. He approached her with an air of welcome, into which he threw all + his natural grace, while he began, "<i>Chère Comtesse de Derby, puissante + Reine de Man, notre très auguste soeur——</i>" + </p> + <p> + "Speak English, sire, if I may presume to ask such a favour," said the + Countess. "I am a Peeress of this nation—mother to one English Earl, + and widow, alas, to another! In England I have spent my brief days of + happiness, my long years of widowhood and sorrow. France and its language + are but to me the dreams of an uninteresting childhood. I know no tongue + save that of my husband and my son. Permit me, as the widow and mother of + Derby, thus to render my homage." + </p> + <p> + She would have kneeled, but the King gracefully prevented her, and, + saluting her cheek, according to the form, led her towards the Queen, and + himself performed the ceremony of introduction. "Your Majesty," he said, + "must be informed that the Countess has imposed a restriction on French—the + language of gallantry and compliment. I trust your Majesty will, though a + foreigner, like herself, find enough of honest English to assure the + Countess of Derby with what pleasure we see her at Court, after the + absence of so many years." + </p> + <p> + "I will endeavour to do so, at least," said the Queen, on whom the + appearance of the Countess of Derby made a more favourable impression than + that of many strangers, whom, at the King's request, she was in the habit + of receiving with courtesy. + </p> + <p> + Charles himself again spoke. "To any other lady of the same rank I might + put the question, why she was so long absent from the circle? I fear I can + only ask the Countess of Derby, what fortunate cause produces the pleasure + of seeing her here?" + </p> + <p> + "No fortunate cause, my liege, though one most strong and urgent." + </p> + <p> + The King augured nothing agreeable from this commencement; and in truth, + from the Countess's first entrance, he had anticipated some unpleasant + explanation, which he therefore hastened to parry, having first composed + his features into an expression of sympathy and interest. + </p> + <p> + "If," said he, "the cause is of a nature in which we can render + assistance, we cannot expect your ladyship should enter upon it at the + present time; but a memorial addressed to our secretary, or, if it is more + satisfactory, to ourselves directly, will receive our immediate, and I + trust I need not add, our favourable construction." + </p> + <p> + The Countess bowed with some state, and answered, "My business, sire, is + indeed important; but so brief, that it need not for more than a few + minutes withdraw your ear from what is more pleasing;—yet it is so + urgent, that I am afraid to postpone it even for a moment." + </p> + <p> + "This is unusual," said Charles. "But you, Countess of Derby, are an + unwonted guest, and must command my time. Does the matter require my + private ear?" + </p> + <p> + "For my part," said the Countess, "the whole Court might listen; but you + Majesty may prefer hearing me in the presence of one or two of your + counsellors." + </p> + <p> + "Ormond," said the King, looking around, "attend us for an instant—and + do you, Arlington, do the same." + </p> + <p> + The King led the way into an adjoining cabinet, and, seating himself, + requested the Countess would also take a chair. "It needs not, sire," she + replied; then pausing for a moment, as if to collect her spirits, she + proceeded with firmness. + </p> + <p> + "Your Majesty well said that no light cause had drawn me from my lonely + habitation. I came not hither when the property of my son—that + property which descended to him from a father who died for your Majesty's + rights—was conjured away from him under pretext of justice, that it + might first feed the avarice of the rebel Fairfax, and then supply the + prodigality of his son-in-law, Buckingham." + </p> + <p> + "These are over harsh terms, lady," said the King. "A legal penalty was, + as we remember, incurred by an act of irregular violence—so our + courts and our laws term it, though personally I have no objection to call + it, with you, an honourable revenge. But admit it were such, in + prosecution of the laws of honour, bitter legal consequences are often + necessarily incurred." + </p> + <p> + "I come not to argue for my son's wasted and forfeited inheritance, sire," + said the Countess; "I only take credit for my patience, under that + afflicting dispensation. I now come to redeem the honour of the House of + Derby, more dear to me than all the treasures and lands which ever + belonged to it." + </p> + <p> + "And by whom is the honour of the House of Derby impeached?" said the + King; "for on my word you bring me the first news of it." + </p> + <p> + "Has there one Narrative, as these wild fictions are termed, been printed + with regard to the Popish Plot—this pretended Plot as I will call it—in + which the honour of our house has not been touched and tainted? And are + there not two noble gentlemen, father and son, allies of the House of + Stanley, about to be placed in jeopardy of their lives, on account of + matters in which we are the parties first impeached?" + </p> + <p> + The King looked around, and smiled to Arlington and Ormond. "The + Countess's courage, methinks, shames ours. What lips dared have called the + immaculate Plot <i>pretended</i>, or the Narrative of the witnesses, our + preservers from Popish knives, a wild fiction?—But, madam," he said, + "though I admire the generosity of your interference in behalf of the two + Peverils, I must acquaint you, that your interference is unnecessary—they + are this morning acquitted." + </p> + <p> + "Now may God be praised!" said the Countess, folding her hands. "I have + scarce slept since I heard the news of their impeachment; and have arrived + here to surrender myself to your Majesty's justice, or to the prejudices + of the nation, in hopes, by so doing, I might at least save the lives of + my noble and generous friends, enveloped in suspicion only, or chiefly, by + their connection with us.—Are they indeed acquitted?" + </p> + <p> + "They are, by my honour," said the King. "I marvel you heard it not." + </p> + <p> + "I arrived but last night, and remained in the strictest seclusion," said + the Countess, "afraid to make any inquiries that might occasion discovery + ere I saw your Majesty." + </p> + <p> + "And now that we <i>have</i> met," said the King, taking her hand kindly—"a + meeting which gives me the greatest pleasure—may I recommend to you + speedily to return to your royal island with as little <i>éclat</i> as you + came thither? The world, my dear Countess, has changed since we were + young. Men fought in the Civil War with good swords and muskets; but now + we fight with indictments and oaths, and such like legal weapons. You are + no adept in such warfare; and though I am well aware you know how to hold + out a castle, I doubt much if you have the art to parry off an + impeachment. This Plot has come upon us like a land storm—there is + no steering the vessel in the teeth of the tempest—we must run for + the nearest haven, and happy if we can reach one." + </p> + <p> + "This is cowardice, my liege," said the Countess—"Forgive the word!—it + is but a woman who speaks it. Call your noble friends around you, and make + a stand like your royal father. There is but one right and one wrong—one + honourable and forward course; and all others which deviate are oblique + and unworthy." + </p> + <p> + "Your language, my venerated friend," said Ormond, who saw the necessity + of interfering betwixt the dignity of the actual Sovereign and the freedom + of the Countess, who was generally accustomed to receive, not to pay + observance,—"your language is strong and decided, but it applies not + to the times. It might occasion a renewal of the Civil War, and of all its + miseries, but could hardly be attended with the effects you sanguinely + anticipate." + </p> + <p> + "You are too rash, my Lady Countess," said Arlington, "not only to rush + upon this danger yourself, but to desire to involve his Majesty. Let me + say plainly, that, in this jealous time, you have done but ill to exchange + the security of Castle Rushin for the chance of a lodging in the Tower of + London." + </p> + <p> + "And were I to kiss the block there," said the Countess, "as did my + husband at Bolton-on-the-Moors, I would do so willingly, rather than + forsake a friend!—and one, too, whom, as in the case of the younger + Peveril, I have thrust upon danger." + </p> + <p> + "But have I not assured you that both of the Peverils, elder and younger, + are freed from peril?" said the King; "and, my dear Countess, what can + else tempt you to thrust <i>yourself</i> on danger, from which, doubtless, + you expect to be relieved by my intervention? Methinks a lady of your + judgment should not voluntarily throw herself into a river, merely that + her friends might have the risk and merit of dragging her out." + </p> + <p> + The Countess reiterated her intention to claim a fair trial.—The two + counsellors again pressed their advice that she should withdraw, though + under the charge of absconding from justice, and remain in her own feudal + kingdom. + </p> + <p> + The King, seeing no termination to the debate, gently reminded the + Countess that her Majesty would be jealous if he detained her ladyship + longer, and offered her his hand to conduct her back to the company. This + she was under the necessity of accepting, and returned accordingly to the + apartments of state, where an event occurred immediately afterwards, which + must be transferred to the next chapter. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0046" id="link2HCH0046"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XLVI + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Here stand I tight and trim, + Quick of eye, though little of limb; + He who denieth the word I have spoken, + Betwixt him and me shall lances be broken. + —LAY OF THE LITTLE JOHN DE SAINTRE. +</pre> + <p> + When Charles had reconducted the Countess of Derby into the + presence-chamber, before he parted with her, he entreated her, in a + whisper, to be governed by good counsel, and to regard her own safety; and + then turned easily from her, as if to distribute his attentions equally + among the other guests. + </p> + <p> + These were a good deal circumscribed at the instant, by the arrival of a + party of five or six musicians; one of whom, a German, under the patronage + of the Duke of Buckingham, was particularly renowned for his performance + on the violoncello, but had been detained in inactivity in the antechamber + by the non-arrival of his instrument, which had now at length made its + appearance. + </p> + <p> + The domestic who placed it before the owner, shrouded as it was within its + wooden case, seemed heartily glad to be rid of his load, and lingered for + a moment, as if interested in discovering what sort of instrument was to + be produced that could weigh so heavily. His curiosity was satisfied, and + in a most extraordinary manner; for, while the musician was fumbling with + the key, the case being for his greater convenience placed upright against + the wall, the case and instrument itself at once flew open, and out + started the dwarf, Geoffrey Hudson,—at sight of whose unearthly + appearance, thus suddenly introduced, the ladies shrieked, and ran + backwards; the gentlemen started, and the poor German, on seeing the + portentous delivery of his fiddle-case, tumbled on the floor in an agony, + supposing, it might be, that his instrument was metamorphosed into the + strange figure which supplied its place. So soon, however, as he + recovered, he glided out of the apartment, and was followed by most of his + companions. + </p> + <p> + "Hudson!" said the King—"My little old friend, I am not sorry to see + you; though Buckingham, who I suppose is the purveyor of this jest, hath + served us up but a stale one." + </p> + <p> + "Will your Majesty honour me with one moment's attention?" said Hudson. + </p> + <p> + "Assuredly, my good friend," said the King. "Old acquaintances are + springing up in every quarter to-night; and our leisure can hardly be + better employed than in listening to them.—It was an idle trick of + Buckingham," he added, in a whisper to Ormond, "to send the poor thing + hither, especially as he was to-day tried for the affair of the plot. At + any rate he comes not to ask protection from us, having had the rare + fortune to come off <i>Plot-free</i>. He is but fishing, I suppose, for + some little present or pension." + </p> + <p> + The little man, precise in Court etiquette, yet impatient of the King's + delaying to attend to him, stood in the midst of the floor, most + valorously pawing and prancing, like a Scots pony assuming the airs of a + war-horse, waving meanwhile his little hat with the tarnished feather, and + bowing from time to time, as if impatient to be heard. + </p> + <p> + "Speak on, then, my friend," said Charles; "if thou hast some poetical + address penned for thee, out with it, that thou mayst have time to repose + these flourishing little limbs of thine." + </p> + <p> + "No poetical speech have I, most mighty Sovereign," answered the dwarf; + "but, in plain and most loyal prose, I do accuse, before this company, the + once noble Duke of Buckingham of high treason!" + </p> + <p> + "Well spoken, and manfully—Get on, man," said the King, who never + doubted that this was the introduction to something burlesque or witty, + not conceiving that the charge was made in solemn earnest. + </p> + <p> + A great laugh took place among such courtiers as heard, and among many who + did not hear, what was uttered by the dwarf; the former entertained by the + extravagant emphasis and gesticulation of the little champion, and the + others laughing not the less loud that they laughed for example's sake, + and upon trust. + </p> + <p> + "What matter is there for all this mirth?" said he, very indignantly—"Is + it fit subject for laughing, that I, Geoffrey Hudson, Knight, do, before + King and nobles, impeach George Villiers, Duke of Buckingham, of high + treason?" + </p> + <p> + "No subject of mirth, certainly," said Charles, composing his features; + "but great matter of wonder.—Come, cease this mouthing, and + prancing, and mummery.—If there be a jest, come out with it, man; + and if not, even get thee to the beaffet, and drink a cup of wine to + refresh thee after thy close lodging." + </p> + <p> + "I tell you, my liege," said Hudson impatiently, yet in a whisper, + intended only to be audible by the King, "that if you spend overmuch time + in trifling, you will be convinced by dire experience of Buckingham's + treason. I tell you,—I asseverate to your Majesty,—two hundred + armed fanatics will be here within the hour, to surprise the guards." + </p> + <p> + "Stand back, ladies," said the King, "or you may hear more than you will + care to listen to. My Lord of Buckingham's jests are not always, you know, + quite fitted for female ears; besides, we want a few words in private with + our little friend. You, my Lord of Ormond—you, Arlington" (and he + named one or two others), "may remain with us." + </p> + <p> + The gay crowd bore back, and dispersed through the apartment—the men + to conjecture what the end of this mummery, as they supposed it, was + likely to prove; and what jest, as Sedley said, the bass-fiddle had been + brought to bed of—and the ladies to admire and criticise the antique + dress, and richly embroidered ruff and hood of the Countess of Derby, to + whom the Queen was showing particular attention. + </p> + <p> + "And now, in the name of Heaven, and amongst friends," said the King to + the dwarf, "what means all this?" + </p> + <p> + "Treason, my lord the King!—Treason to his Majesty of England!—When + I was chambered in yonder instrument, my lord, the High-Dutch fellows who + bore me, carried me into a certain chapel, to see, as they said to each + other, that all was ready. Sire, I went where bass-fiddle never went + before, even into a conventicle of Fifth-Monarchists; and when they + brought me away, the preacher was concluding his sermon, and was within a + 'Now to apply' of setting off like the bell-wether at the head of his + flock, to surprise your Majesty in your royal Court! I heard him through + the sound-holes of my instrument, when the fellow set me down for a moment + to profit by this precious doctrine." + </p> + <p> + "It would be singular," said Lord Arlington, "were there some reality at + the bottom of this buffoonery; for we know these wild men have been + consulting together to-day, and five conventicles have held a solemn + fast." + </p> + <p> + "Nay," said the King, "if that be the case, they are certainly determined + on some villainy." + </p> + <p> + "Might I advise," said the Duke of Ormond, "I would summon the Duke of + Buckingham to this presence. His connections with the fanatics are well + known, though he affects to conceal them." + </p> + <p> + "You would not, my lord, do his Grace the injustice to treat him as a + criminal on such a charge as this?" said the King. "However," he added, + after a moment's consideration, "Buckingham is accessible to every sort of + temptation, from the flightiness of his genius. I should not be surprised + if he nourished hopes of an aspiring kind—I think we had some proof + of it lately.—Hark ye, Chiffinch; go to him instantly, and bring him + here on any fair pretext thou canst devise. I would fain save him from + what lawyers call an overt act. The Court would be dull as a dead horse + were Buckingham to miscarry." + </p> + <p> + "Will not your Majesty order the Horse Guards to turn out?" said young + Selby, who was present, and an officer. + </p> + <p> + "No, Selby," said the King, "I like not horse-play. But let them be + prepared; and let the High Bailiff collect his civil officers, and command + the Sheriffs to summon their worshipful attendants from javelin-men to + hangmen, and have them in readiness, in case of any sudden tumult—double + the sentinels on the doors of the palace—and see no strangers get + in." + </p> + <p> + "Or <i>out</i>," said the Duke of Ormond. "Where are the foreign fellows + who brought in the dwarf?" + </p> + <p> + They were sought for, but they were not to be found. They had retreated, + leaving their instruments—a circumstance which seemed to bear hard + on the Duke of Buckingham, their patron. + </p> + <p> + Hasty preparations were made to provide resistance to any effort of + despair which the supposed conspirators might be driven to; and in the + meanwhile, the King, withdrawing with Arlington, Ormond, and a few other + counsellors, into the cabinet where the Countess of Derby had had her + audience, resumed the examination of the little discoverer. His + declaration, though singular, was quite coherent; the strain of romance + intermingled with it, being in fact a part of his character, which often + gained him the fate of being laughed at, when he would otherwise have been + pitied, or even esteemed. + </p> + <p> + He commenced with a flourish about his sufferings for the Plot, which the + impatience of Ormond would have cut short, had not the King reminded his + Grace, that a top, when it is not flogged, must needs go down of itself at + the end of a definite time, while the application of the whip may keep it + up for hours. + </p> + <p> + Geoffrey Hudson was, therefore, allowed to exhaust himself on the subject + of his prison-house, which he informed the King was not without a beam of + light—an emanation of loveliness—a mortal angel—quick of + step and beautiful of eye, who had more than once visited his confinement + with words of cheering and comfort. + </p> + <p> + "By my faith," said the King, "they fare better in Newgate than I was + aware of. Who would have thought of the little gentleman being solaced + with female society in such a place?" + </p> + <p> + "I pray your Majesty," said the dwarf, after the manner of a solemn + protest, "to understand nothing amiss. My devotion to this fair creature + is rather like what we poor Catholics pay to the blessed saints, than + mixed with any grosser quality. Indeed, she seems rather a sylphid of the + Rosicrucian system, than aught more carnal; being slighter, lighter, and + less than the females of common life, who have something of that + coarseness of make which is doubtless derived from the sinful and gigantic + race of the antediluvians." + </p> + <p> + "Well, say on, man," quoth Charles. "Didst thou not discover this sylph to + be a mere mortal wench after all?" + </p> + <p> + "Who?—I, my liege?—Oh, fie!" + </p> + <p> + "Nay, little gentleman, do not be so particularly scandalised," said the + King; "I promise you I suspect you of no audacity of gallantry." + </p> + <p> + "Time wears fast," said the Duke of Ormond impatiently, and looking at his + watch. "Chiffinch hath been gone ten minutes, and ten minutes will bring + him back." + </p> + <p> + "True," said Charles gravely. "Come to the point, Hudson; and tell us what + this female has to do with your coming hither in this extraordinary + manner." + </p> + <p> + "Everything, my lord," said little Hudson. "I saw her twice during my + confinement in Newgate, and, in my thought, she is the very angel who + guards my life and welfare; for, after my acquittal, as I walked towards + the city with two tall gentlemen, who had been in trouble along with me, + and just while we stood to our defence against a rascally mob, and just as + I had taken possession of an elevated situation, to have some vantage + against the great odds of numbers, I heard a heavenly voice sound, as it + were, from a window behind me, counselling me to take refuge in a certain + house; to which measure I readily persuaded my gallant friends the + Peverils, who have always shown themselves willing to be counselled by + me." + </p> + <p> + "Showing therein their wisdom at once and modesty," said the King. "But + what chanced next? Be brief—be like thyself, man." + </p> + <p> + "For a time, sire," said the dwarf, "it seemed as if I were not the + principal object of attention. First, the younger Peveril was withdrawn + from us by a gentleman of venerable appearance, though something smacking + of a Puritan, having boots of neat's leather, and wearing his weapon + without a sword-knot. When Master Julian returned, he informed us, for the + first time, that we were in the power of a body of armed fanatics who + were, as the poet says, prompt for direful act. And your Majesty will + remark, that both father and son were in some measure desperate, and + disregardful from that moment of the assurances which I gave them, that + the star which I was bound to worship, would, in her own time, shine forth + in signal of our safety. May it please your Majesty, in answer to my + hilarious exhortations to confidence, the father did but say <i>tush</i>, + and the son <i>pshaw</i>, which showed how men's prudence and manners are + disturbed by affliction. Nevertheless, these two gentlemen, the Peverils, + forming a strong opinion of the necessity there was to break forth, were + it only to convey a knowledge of these dangerous passages to your Majesty, + commenced an assault on the door of the apartment, I also assisting with + the strength which Heaven hath given, and some threescore years have left + me. We could not, as it unhappily proved, manage our attempt so silently, + but that our guards overheard us, and, entering in numbers, separated us + from each other, and compelled my companions, at point of pike and + poniard, to go to some other and more distant apartment, thus separating + our fair society. I was again enclosed in the now solitary chamber, and I + will own that I felt a certain depression of soul. But when bale is at + highest, as the poet singeth, boot is at nighest, for a door of hope was + suddenly opened——" + </p> + <p> + "In the name of God, my liege," said the Duke of Ormond, "let this poor + creature's story be translated into the language of common sense by some + of the scribblers of romances about Court, and we may be able to make + meaning of it." + </p> + <p> + Geoffrey Hudson looked with a frowning countenance of reproof upon the + impatient old Irish nobleman, and said, with a very dignified air, "That + one Duke upon a poor gentleman's hand was enough at a time, and that, but + for his present engagement and dependency with the Duke of Buckingham, he + would have endured no such terms from the Duke of Ormond." + </p> + <p> + "Abate your valour, and diminish your choler, at our request, most + puissant Sir Geoffrey Hudson," said the King; "and forgive the Duke of + Ormond for my sake; but at all events go on with your story." + </p> + <p> + Geoffrey Hudson laid his hand on his bosom, and bowed in proud and + dignified submission to his Sovereign; then waved his forgiveness + gracefully to Ormond, accompanied with a horrible grin, which he designed + for a smile of gracious forgiveness and conciliation. "Under the Duke's + favour, then," he proceeded, "when I said a door of hope was opened to me, + I meant a door behind the tapestry, from whence issued that fair vision—yet + not so fair as lustrously dark, like the beauty of a continental night, + where the cloudless azure sky shrouds us in a veil more lovely than that + of day!—but I note your Majesty's impatience;—enough. I + followed my beautiful guide into an apartment, where there lay, strangely + intermingled, warlike arms and musical instruments. Amongst these I saw my + own late place of temporary obscurity—a violoncello. To my + astonishment, she turned around the instrument, and opening it behind the + pressure of a spring, showed that it was filled with pistols, daggers, and + ammunition made up in bandoleers. 'These,' she said, 'are this night + destined to surprise the Court of the unwary Charles'—your Majesty + must pardon my using her own words; 'but if thou darest go in their stead, + thou mayst be the saviour of king and kingdoms; if thou art afraid, keep + secret, I will myself try the adventure.' Now may Heaven forbid, that + Geoffrey Hudson were craven enough, said I, to let thee run such a risk! + You know not—you cannot know, what belongs to such ambuscades and + concealments—I am accustomed to them—have lurked in the pocket + of a giant, and have formed the contents of a pasty. 'Get in then,' she + said, 'and lose no time.' Nevertheless, while I prepared to obey, I will + not deny that some cold apprehensions came over my hot valour, and I + confessed to her, if it might be so, I would rather find my way to the + palace on my own feet. But she would not listen to me, saying hastily, 'I + would be intercepted, or refused admittance, and that I must embrace the + means she offered me of introduction into the presence, and when there, + tell the King to be on his guard—little more is necessary; for once + the scheme is known, it becomes desperate.' Rashly and boldly, I bid adieu + to the daylight which was then fading away. She withdrew the contents of + the instrument destined for my concealment, and having put them behind the + chimney-board, introduced me in their room. As she clasped me in, I + implored her to warn the men who were to be entrusted with me, to take + heed and keep the neck of the violoncello uppermost; but ere I had + completed my request, I found I was left alone, and in darkness, + Presently, two or three fellows entered, whom, by their language, which I + in some sort understood, I perceived to be Germans, and under the + influence of the Duke of Buckingham. I heard them receive from the leader + a charge how they were to deport themselves, when they should assume the + concealed arms—and—for I will do the Duke no wrong—I + understood their orders were precise, not only to spare the person of the + King, but also those of the courtiers, and to protect all who might be in + the presence against an irruption of the fanatics. In other respects, they + had charge to disarm the Gentlemen-pensioners in the guard-room, and, in + fine, to obtain the command of the Court." + </p> + <p> + The King looked disconcerted and thoughtful at this communication, and + bade Lord Arlington see that Selby quietly made search into the contents + of the other cases which had been brought as containing musical + instruments. He then signed to the dwarf to proceed in his story, asking + him again and again, and very solemnly, whether he was sure that he heard + the Duke's name mentioned, as commanding or approving this action. + </p> + <p> + The dwarf answered in the affirmative. + </p> + <p> + "This," said the King, "is carrying the frolic somewhat far." + </p> + <p> + The dwarf proceeded to state, that he was carried after his metamorphosis + into the chapel, where he heard the preacher seemingly about the close of + his harangue, the tenor of which he also mentioned. Words, he said, could + not express the agony which he felt when he found that his bearer, in + placing the instrument in a corner, was about to invert its position, in + which case, he said, human frailty might have proved too great for love, + for loyalty, for true obedience, nay, for the fear of death, which was + like to ensue on discovery; and he concluded, that he greatly doubted he + could not have stood on his head for many minutes without screaming aloud. + </p> + <p> + "I could not have blamed you," said the King; "placed in such a posture in + the royal oak, I must needs have roared myself.—Is this all you have + to tell us of this strange conspiracy?" Sir Geoffrey Hudson replied in the + affirmative, and the King presently subjoined—"Go, my little friend, + your services shall not be forgotten. Since thou hast crept into the + bowels of a fiddle for our service, we are bound, in duty and conscience, + to find you a more roomy dwelling in future." + </p> + <p> + "It was a violoncello, if your Majesty is pleased to remember," said the + little jealous man, "not a common fiddle; though, for your Majesty's + service, I would have crept even into a kit." + </p> + <p> + "Whatever of that nature could have been performed by any subject of ours, + thou wouldst have enacted in our behalf—of that we hold ourselves + certain. Withdraw for a little; and hark ye, for the present, beware what + you say about this matter. Let your appearance be considered—do you + mark me—as a frolic of the Duke of Buckingham; and not a word of + conspiracy." + </p> + <p> + "Were it not better to put him under some restraint, sire?" said the Duke + of Ormond, when Hudson had left the room. + </p> + <p> + "It is unnecessary," said the King. "I remember the little wretch of old. + Fortune, to make him the model of absurdity, has closed a most lofty soul + within that little miserable carcass. For wielding his sword and keeping + his word, he is a perfect Don Quixote in decimo-octavo. He shall be taken + care of.—But, oddsfish, my lords, is not this freak of Buckingham + too villainous and ungrateful?" + </p> + <p> + "He had not had the means of being so, had your Majesty," said the Duke of + Ormond, "been less lenient on other occasions." + </p> + <p> + "My lord, my lord," said Charles hastily—"your lordship is + Buckingham's known enemy—we will take other and more impartial + counsel—Arlington, what think you of all this?" + </p> + <p> + "May it please your Majesty," said Arlington, "I think the thing is + absolutely impossible, unless the Duke has had some quarrel with your + Majesty, of which we know nothing. His Grace is very flighty, doubtless, + but this seems actual insanity." + </p> + <p> + "Why, faith," said the King, "some words passed betwixt us this morning—his + Duchess it seems is dead—and to lose no time, his Grace had cast his + eyes about for means of repairing the loss, and had the assurance to ask + our consent to woo my niece Lady Anne." + </p> + <p> + "Which your Majesty of course rejected?" said the statesman. + </p> + <p> + "And not without rebuking his assurance," added the King. + </p> + <p> + "In private, sire, or before any witnesses?" said the Duke of Ormond. + </p> + <p> + "Before no one," said the King,—"excepting, indeed, little + Chiffinch; and he, you know, is no one." + </p> + <p> + "<i>Hinc illæ lachrymæ</i>," said Ormond. "I know his Grace well. While + the rebuke of his aspiring petulance was a matter betwixt your Majesty and + him, he might have let it pass by; but a check before a fellow from whom + it was likely enough to travel through the Court, was a matter to be + revenged." + </p> + <p> + Here Selby came hastily from the other room, to say, that his Grace of + Buckingham had just entered the presence-chamber. + </p> + <p> + The King rose. "Let a boat be in readiness, with a party of the yeomen," + said he. "It may be necessary to attach him of treason, and send him to + the Tower." + </p> + <p> + "Should not a Secretary of State's warrant be prepared?" said Ormond. + </p> + <p> + "No, my Lord Duke," said the King sharply. "I still hope that the + necessity may be avoided." + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0047" id="link2HCH0047"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XLVII + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + High-reaching Buckingham grows circumspect. + —RICHARD III. +</pre> + <p> + Before giving the reader an account of the meeting betwixt Buckingham and + his injured Sovereign, we may mention a trifling circumstance or two which + took place betwixt his Grace and Chiffinch, in the short drive betwixt + York Place and Whitehall. + </p> + <p> + In the outset, the Duke endeavoured to learn from the courtier the special + cause of his being summoned so hastily to the Court. Chiffinch answered, + cautiously, that he believed there were some gambols going forward, at + which the King desired the Duke's presence. + </p> + <p> + This did not quite satisfy Buckingham, for, conscious of his own rash + purpose, he could not but apprehend discovery. After a moment's silence, + "Chiffinch," he said abruptly, "did you mention to any one what the King + said to me this morning touching the Lady Anne?" + </p> + <p> + "My Lord Duke," said Chiffinch, hesitantly, "surely my duty to the King—my + respect to your Grace——" + </p> + <p> + "You mentioned it to no one, then?" said the Duke sternly. + </p> + <p> + "To no one," replied Chiffinch faintly, for he was intimidated by the + Duke's increasing severity of manner. + </p> + <p> + "Ye lie, like a scoundrel!" said the Duke—"You told Christian!" + </p> + <p> + "Your Grace," said Chiffinch—"your Grace—your Grace ought to + remember that I told you Christian's secret; that the Countess of Derby + was come up." + </p> + <p> + "And you think the one point of treachery may balance for the other? But + no. I must have a better atonement. Be assured I will blow your brains + out, ere you leave this carriage, unless you tell me the truth of this + message from Court." + </p> + <p> + As Chiffinch hesitated what reply to make, a man, who, by the blaze of the + torches, then always borne, as well by the lackeys who hung behind the + carriage, as by the footmen who ran by the side, might easily see who sat + in the coach, approached, and sung in a deep manly voice, the burden of an + old French song on the battle of Marignan, in which is imitated the German + French of the defeated Swiss. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "<i>Tout est verlore + La tintelore, + Tout est verlore</i> + Bei Got." +</pre> + <p> + "I am betrayed," said the Duke, who instantly conceived that this chorus, + expressing "all is lost," was sung by one of his faithful agents, as a + hint to him that their machinations were discovered. + </p> + <p> + He attempted to throw himself from the carriage, but Chiffinch held him + with a firm, though respectful grasp. "Do not destroy yourself, my lord," + he said, in a tone of deep humility—"there are soldiers and officers + of the peace around the carriage, to enforce your Grace's coming to + Whitehall, and to prevent your escape. To attempt it would be to confess + guilt; and I advise you strongly against that—the King is your + friend—be your own." + </p> + <p> + The Duke, after a moment's consideration, said sullenly, "I believe you + are right. Why should I fly, when I am guilty of nothing but sending some + fireworks to entertain the Court, instead of a concert of music?" + </p> + <p> + "And the dwarf, who came so unexpectedly out of the bass-viol——" + </p> + <p> + "Was a masking device of my own, Chiffinch," said the Duke, though the + circumstance was then first known to him. "Chiffinch, you will bind me for + ever, if you will permit me to have a minute's conversation with + Christian." + </p> + <p> + "With Christian, my lord?—Where could you find him?—You are + aware we must go straight to the Court." + </p> + <p> + "True," said the Duke, "but I think I cannot miss finding him; and you, + Master Chiffinch, are no officer, and have no warrant either to detain me + prisoner, or prevent my speaking to whom I please." + </p> + <p> + Chiffinch replied, "My Lord Duke, your genius is so great, and your + escapes so numerous, that it will be from no wish of my own if I am forced + to hurt a man so skilful and so popular." + </p> + <p> + "Nay, then, there is life in it yet," said the Duke, and whistled; when, + from beside the little cutler's booth, with which the reader is + acquainted, appeared, suddenly, Master Christian, and was in a moment at + the side of the coach. "<i>Ganz ist verloren</i>," said the Duke. + </p> + <p> + "I know it," said Christian; "and all our godly friends are dispersed upon + the news. Luckily the Colonel and these German rascals gave a hint. All is + safe—You go to Court—Hark ye, I will follow." + </p> + <p> + "You, Christian? that would be more friendly than wise." + </p> + <p> + "Why, what is there against me?" said Christian. "I am innocent as the + child unborn—so is your Grace. There is but one creature who can + bear witness to our guilt; but I trust to bring her on the stage in our + favour—besides, if I were not, I should presently be sent for." + </p> + <p> + "The familiar of whom I have heard you speak, I warrant?" + </p> + <p> + "Hark in your ear again." + </p> + <p> + "I understand," said the Duke, "and will delay Master Chiffinch,—for + he, you must know, is my conductor,—no longer.—Well, + Chiffinch, let them drive on.—<i>Vogue la Galère!</i>" he exclaimed, + as the carriage went onward; "I have sailed through worse perils than this + yet." + </p> + <p> + "It is not for me to judge," said Chiffinch; "your Grace is a bold + commander; and Christian hath the cunning of the devil for a pilot; but——However, + I remain your Grace's poor friend, and will heartily rejoice in your + extrication." + </p> + <p> + "Give me a proof of your friendship," said the Duke. "Tell me what you + know of Christian's familiar, as he calls her." + </p> + <p> + "I believe it to be the same dancing wench who came with Empson to my + house on the morning that Mistress Alice made her escape from us. But you + have seen her, my lord?" + </p> + <p> + "I?" said the Duke; "when did I see her?" + </p> + <p> + "She was employed by Christian, I believe, to set his niece at liberty, + when he found himself obliged to gratify his fanatical brother-in-law, by + restoring his child; besides being prompted by a private desire, as I + think, of bantering your Grace." + </p> + <p> + "Umph! I suspected so much. I will repay it," said the Duke. "But first to + get out of this dilemma.—That little Numidian witch, then, was his + familiar; and she joined in the plot to tantalise me?—But here we + reach Whitehall.—Now, Chiffinch, be no worse than thy word, and—now, + Buckingham, be thyself!" + </p> + <p> + But ere we follow Buckingham into the presence, where he had so difficult + a part to sustain, it may not be amiss to follow Christian after his brief + conversation with him. On re-entering the house, which he did by a + circuitous passage, leading from a distant alley, and through several + courts, Christian hastened to a low matted apartment, in which Bridgenorth + sat alone, reading the Bible by the light of a small brazen lamp, with the + utmost serenity of countenance. + </p> + <p> + "Have you dismissed the Peverils?" said Christian hastily. + </p> + <p> + "I have," said the Major. + </p> + <p> + "And upon what pledge—that they will not carry information against + you to Whitehall?" + </p> + <p> + "They gave me their promise voluntarily, when I showed them our armed + friends were dismissed. To-morrow, I believe, it is their purpose to lodge + informations." + </p> + <p> + "And why not to-night, I pray you?" said Christian. + </p> + <p> + "Because they allow us that time for escape." + </p> + <p> + "Why, then, do you not avail yourself of it? Wherefore are you here?" said + Christian. + </p> + <p> + "Nay, rather, why do <i>you</i> not fly?" said Bridgenorth. "Of a surety, + you are as deeply engaged as I." + </p> + <p> + "Brother Bridgenorth, I am the fox, who knows a hundred modes of deceiving + the hounds; you are the deer, whose sole resource is in hasty flight. + Therefore lose no time—begone to the country—or rather, + Zedekiah Fish's vessel, the <i>Good Hope</i>, lies in the river, bound for + Massachusetts—take the wings of the morning, and begone—she + can fall down to Gravesend with the tide." + </p> + <p> + "And leave to thee, brother Christian," said Bridgenorth, "the charge of + my fortune and my daughter? No, brother; my opinion of your good faith + must be re-established ere I again trust thee." + </p> + <p> + "Go thy ways, then, for a suspicious fool," said Christian, suppressing + his strong desire to use language more offensive; "or rather stay where + thou art, and take thy chance of the gallows!" + </p> + <p> + "It is appointed to all men to die once," said Bridgenorth; "my life hath + been a living death. My fairest boughs have been stripped by the axe of + the forester—that which survives must, if it shall blossom, be + grafted elsewhere, and at a distance from my aged trunk. The sooner, then, + the root feels the axe, the stroke is more welcome. I had been pleased, + indeed, had I been called to bringing yonder licentious Court to a purer + character, and relieving the yoke of the suffering people of God. That + youth too—son to that precious woman, to whom I owe the last tie + that feebly links my wearied spirit to humanity—could I have + travailed with <i>him</i> in the good cause!—But that, with all my + other hopes is broken for ever; and since I am not worthy to be an + instrument in so great a work, I have little desire to abide longer in + this vale of sorrow." + </p> + <p> + "Farewell, then, desponding fool!" said Christian, unable, with all his + calmness, any longer to suppress his contempt for the resigned and + hopeless predestinarian. "That fate should have clogged me with such + confederates!" he muttered, as he left the apartment—"this bigoted + fool is now nearly irreclaimable—I must to Zarah; for she, or no + one, must carry us through these straits. If I can but soothe her sullen + temper, and excite her vanity to action,—betwixt her address, the + King's partiality for the Duke, Buckingham's matchless effrontery, and my + own hand upon the helm, we may yet weather the tempest that darkens around + us. But what we do must be hastily done." + </p> + <p> + In another apartment he found the person he sought—the same who + visited the Duke of Buckingham's harem, and, having relieved Alice + Bridgenorth from her confinement there, had occupied her place as has been + already narrated, or rather intimated. She was now much more plainly + attired than when she had tantalised the Duke with her presence; but her + dress had still something of the Oriental character, which corresponded + with the dark complexion and quick eye of the wearer. She had the kerchief + at her eyes as Christian entered the apartment, but suddenly withdrew it, + and, flashing on him a glance of scorn and indignation, asked him what he + meant by intruding where his company was alike unsought for and undesired. + </p> + <p> + "A proper question," said Christian, "from a slave to her master!" + </p> + <p> + "Rather, say, a proper question, and of all questions the most proper, + from a mistress to her slave! Know you not, that from the hour in which + you discovered your ineffable baseness, you have made me mistress of your + lot? While you seemed but a demon of vengeance, you commanded terror, and + to good purpose; but such a foul fiend as thou hast of late shown thyself—such + a very worthless, base trickster of the devil—such a sordid + grovelling imp of perdition, can gain nothing but scorn from a soul like + mine." + </p> + <p> + "Gallantly mouthed," said Christian, "and with good emphasis." + </p> + <p> + "Yes," answered Zarah, "I can speak—sometimes—I can also be + mute; and that no one knows better than thou." + </p> + <p> + "Thou art a spoiled child, Zarah, and dost but abuse the indulgence I + entertain for your freakish humour," replied Christian; "thy wits have + been disturbed since ever you landed in England, and all for the sake of + one who cares for thee no more than for the most worthless object who + walks the streets, amongst whom he left you to engage in a brawl for one + he loved better." + </p> + <p> + "It is no matter," said Zarah, obviously repressing very bitter emotion; + "it signifies not that he loves another better; there is none—no, + none—that ever did, or can, love him so well." + </p> + <p> + "I pity you, Zarah!" said Christian, with some scorn. + </p> + <p> + "I deserve your pity," she replied, "were your pity worth my accepting. + Whom have I to thank for my wretchedness but you?—You bred me up in + thirst of vengeance, ere I knew that good and evil were anything better + than names;—to gain your applause, and to gratify the vanity you had + excited, I have for years undergone a penance, from which a thousand would + have shrunk." + </p> + <p> + "A thousand, Zarah!" answered Christian; "ay, a hundred thousand, and a + million to boot; the creature is not on earth, being mere mortal woman, + that would have undergone the thirtieth part of thy self-denial." + </p> + <p> + "I believe it," said Zarah, drawing up her slight but elegant figure; "I + believe it—I have gone through a trial that few indeed could have + sustained. I have renounced the dear intercourse of my kind; compelled my + tongue only to utter, like that of a spy, the knowledge which my ear had + only collected as a base eavesdropper. This I have done for years—for + years—and all for the sake of your private applause—and the + hope of vengeance on a woman, who, if she did ill in murdering my father, + has been bitterly repaid by nourishing a serpent in her bosom, that had + the tooth, but not the deafened ear, of the adder." + </p> + <p> + "Well—well—well," reiterated Christian; "and had you not your + reward in my approbation—in the consequences of your own unequalled + dexterity—by which, superior to anything of thy sex that history has + ever known, you endured what woman never before endured, insolence without + notice, admiration without answer, and sarcasm without reply?" + </p> + <p> + "Not without reply!" said Zarah fiercely. "Gave not Nature to my feelings + a course of expression more impressive than words? and did not those + tremble at my shrieks, who would have little minded my entreaties or my + complaints? And my proud lady, who sauced her charities with the taunts + she thought I heard not—she was justly paid by the passing her + dearest and most secret concerns into the hands of her mortal enemy; and + the vain Earl—yet he was a thing as insignificant as the plume that + nodded in his cap;—and the maidens and ladies who taunted me—I + had, or can easily have, my revenge upon them. But there is <i>one</i>," + she added, looking upward, "who never taunted me; one whose generous + feelings could treat the poor dumb girl even as his sister; who never + spoke word of her but was to excuse or defend—and you tell me I must + not love him, and that it is madness to love him!—I <i>will</i> be + mad then, for I will love till the latest breath of my life!" + </p> + <p> + "Think but an instant, silly girl—silly but in one respect, since in + all others thou mayest brave the world of women. Think what I have + proposed to thee, for the loss of this hopeless affection, a career so + brilliant!—Think only that it rests with thyself to be the wife—the + wedded wife—of the princely Buckingham! With my talents—with + thy wit and beauty—with his passionate love of these attributes—a + short space might rank you among England's princesses.—Be but guided + by me—he is now at deadly pass—needs every assistance to + retrieve his fortunes—above all, that which we alone can render him. + Put yourself under my conduct, and not fate itself shall prevent your + wearing a Duchess's coronet." + </p> + <p> + "A coronet of thistle-down, entwined with thistle-leaves," said Zarah.—"I + know not a slighter thing than your Buckingham! I saw him at your request—saw + him when, as a man, he should have shown himself generous and noble—I + stood the proof at your desire, for I laugh at those dangers from which + the poor blushing wailers of my sex shrink and withdraw themselves. What + did I find him?—a poor wavering voluptuary—his nearest attempt + to passion like the fire on a wretched stubble-field, that may singe, + indeed, or smoke, but can neither warm nor devour. Christian! were his + coronet at my feet this moment, I would sooner take up a crown of gilded + gingerbread, than extend my hand to raise it." + </p> + <p> + "You are mad, Zarah—with all your taste and talent, you are utterly + mad! But let Buckingham pass—Do you owe <i>me</i> nothing on this + emergency?—Nothing to one who rescued you from the cruelty of your + owner, the posture-master, to place you in ease and affluence?" + </p> + <p> + "Christian," she replied, "I owe you much. Had I not felt I did so, I + would, as I have been often tempted to do, have denounced thee to the + fierce Countess, who would have gibbeted you on her feudal walls of Castle + Rushin, and bid your family seek redress from the eagles, that would long + since have thatched their nest with your hair, and fed their young ospreys + with your flesh." + </p> + <p> + "I am truly glad you have had so much forbearance for me," answered + Christian. + </p> + <p> + "I have it, in truth and in sincerity," replied Zarah—"Not for your + benefits to me—such as they were, they were every one interested, + and conferred from the most selfish considerations. I have overpaid them a + thousand times by the devotion to your will, which I have displayed at the + greatest personal risk. But till of late I respected your powers of mind—your + inimitable command of passion—the force of intellect which I have + ever seen you exercise over all others, from the bigot Bridgenorth to the + debauched Buckingham—in that, indeed, I have recognised my master." + </p> + <p> + "And those powers," said Christian, "are unlimited as ever; and with thy + assistance, thou shalt see the strongest meshes that the laws of civil + society ever wove to limit the natural dignity of man, broke asunder like + a spider's web." + </p> + <p> + She paused and answered, "While a noble motive fired thee—ay, a + noble motive, though irregular—for I was born to gaze on the sun + which the pale daughters of Europe shrink from—I could serve thee—I + could have followed, while revenge or ambition had guided thee—but + love of <i>wealth</i>, and by what means acquired!—What sympathy can + I hold with that?—Wouldst thou not have pandered to the lust of the + King, though the object was thine own orphan niece?—You smile?—Smile + again when I ask you whether you meant not my own prostitution, when you + charged me to remain in the house of that wretched Buckingham?—Smile + at that question, and by Heaven, I stab you to the heart!" And she thrust + her hand into her bosom, and partly showed the hilt of a small poniard. + </p> + <p> + "And if I smile," said Christian, "it is but in scorn of so odious an + accusation. Girl, I will not tell thee the reason, but there exists not on + earth the living thing over whose safety and honour I would keep watch as + over thine. Buckingham's wife, indeed, I wished thee; and through thy own + beauty and thy wit, I doubted not to bring the match to pass." + </p> + <p> + "Vain flatterer," said Zarah, yet seeming soothed even by the flattery + which she scoffed at, "you would persuade me that it was honourable love + which you expected the Duke was to have offered me. How durst you urge a + gross a deception, to which time, place, and circumstance gave the lie?—How + dare you now again mention it, when you well know, that at the time you + mention, the Duchess was still in life?" + </p> + <p> + "In life, but on her deathbed," said Christian; "and for time, place, and + circumstance, had your virtue, my Zarah, depended on these, how couldst + thou have been the creature thou art? I knew thee all-sufficient to bid + him defiance—else—for thou art dearer to me than thou thinkest—I + had not risked thee to win the Duke of Buckingham; ay, and the kingdom of + England to boot. So now, wilt thou be ruled and go on with me?" + </p> + <p> + Zarah, or Fenella, for our readers must have been long aware of the + identity of these two personages, cast down her eyes, and was silent for a + long time. "Christian," she said at last, in a solemn voice, "if my ideas + of right and of wrong be wild and incoherent, I owe it, first, to the wild + fever which my native sun communicated to my veins; next, to my childhood, + trained amidst the shifts, tricks, and feats of jugglers and mountebanks; + and then, to a youth of fraud and deception, through the course thou didst + prescribe me, in which I might, indeed, hear everything, but communicate + with no one. The last cause of my wild errors, if such they are, + originates, O Christian, with you alone; by whose intrigues I was placed + with yonder lady, and who taught me, that to revenge my father's death, + was my first great duty on earth, and that I was bound by nature to hate + and injure her by whom I was fed and fostered, though as she would have + fed and caressed a dog, or any other mute animal. I also think—for I + will deal fairly with you—that you had not so easily detected your + niece, in the child whose surprising agility was making yonder brutal + mountebank's fortune; nor so readily induced him to part with his + bond-slave, had you not, for your own purposes, placed me under his + charge, and reserved the privilege of claiming me when you pleased. I + could not, under any other tuition, have identified myself with the + personage of a mute, which it has been your desire that I should perform + through life." + </p> + <p> + "You do me injustice, Zarah," said Christian—"I found you capable of + the avenging of your father's death—I consecrated you to it, as I + consecrated my own life and hopes; and you held the duty sacred, till + these mad feeling towards a youth who loves your cousin——" + </p> + <p> + "Who—loves—my—cousin," repeated Zarah (for we will + continue to call her by her real name) slowly, and as if the words dropped + unconsciously from her lips. "Well—be it so!—Man of many + wiles, I will follow thy course for a little, a very little farther; but + take heed—tease me not with remonstrances against the treasure of my + secret thoughts—I mean my most hopeless affection to Julian Peveril—and + bring me not as an assistant to any snare which you may design to cast + around him. You and your Duke shall rue the hour most bitterly, in which + you provoke me. You may suppose you have me in your power; but remember, + the snakes of my burning climate are never so fatal as when you grasp + them." + </p> + <p> + "I care not for these Peverils," said Christian—"I care not for + their fate a poor straw, unless where it bears on that of the destined + woman, whose hands are red in your father's blood. Believe me, I can + divide her fate and theirs. I will explain to you how. And for the Duke, + he may pass among men of the town for wit, and among soldiers for valour, + among courtiers for manners and for form; and why, with his high rank and + immense fortune, you should throw away an opportunity, which, as I could + now improve it——" + </p> + <p> + "Speak not of it," said Zarah, "if thou wouldst have our truce—remember + it is no peace—if, I say, thou wouldst have our truce grow to be an + hour old!" + </p> + <p> + "This, then," said Christian, with a last effort to work upon the vanity + of this singular being, "is she who pretended such superiority to human + passion, that she could walk indifferently and unmoved through the halls + of the prosperous, and the prison cells of the captive, unknowing and + unknown, sympathising neither with the pleasures of the one, nor the woes + of the other, but advancing with sure, though silent steps, her own plans, + in despite and regardless of either!" + </p> + <p> + "My own plans!" said Zarah—"<i>Thy</i> plans, Christian—thy + plans of extorting from the surprised prisoners, means whereby to convict + them—thine own plans, formed with those more powerful than thyself, + to sound men's secrets, and, by using them as a matter of accusation, to + keep up the great delusion of the nation." + </p> + <p> + "Such access was indeed given you as my agent," said Christian, "and for + advancing a great national change. But how did you use it?—to + advance your insane passion." + </p> + <p> + "Insane!" said Zarah—"Had he been less than insane whom I addressed, + he and I had ere now been far from the toils which you have pitched for us + both. I had means prepared for everything; and ere this, the shores of + Britain had been lost to our sight for ever." + </p> + <p> + "The dwarf, too," said Christian—"Was it worthy of you to delude + that poor creature with flattering visions—lull him asleep with + drugs! Was <i>that</i> my doing?" + </p> + <p> + "He was my destined tool," said Zarah haughtily. "I remembered your + lessons too well not to use him as such. Yet scorn him not too much. I + tell you, that yon very miserable dwarf, whom I made my sport in the + prison—yon wretched abortion of nature, I would select for a + husband, ere I would marry your Buckingham;—the vain and imbecile + pigmy has yet the warm heart and noble feelings, that a man should hold + his highest honour." + </p> + <p> + "In God's name, then, take your own way," said Christian; "and, for my + sake, let never man hereafter limit a woman in the use of her tongue, + since he must make it amply up to her, in allowing her the privilege of + her own will. Who would have thought it? But the colt has slipped the + bridle, and I must needs follow, since I cannot guide her." + </p> + <p> + Our narrative returns to the Court of King Charles at Whitehall. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0048" id="link2HCH0048"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XLVIII + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + ——But oh! + What shall I say to thee, Lord Scroop; thou cruel, + Ingrateful, savage, and inhuman creature! + Thou that didst bear the key of all my counsels, + That knew'st the very bottom of my soul, + That almost mightst have coined me into gold, + Wouldst thou have practised on me for thy use? + —HENRY V. +</pre> + <p> + At no period of his life, not even when that life was in imminent danger, + did the constitutional gaiety of Charles seem more overclouded, than when + waiting for the return of Chiffinch with the Duke of Buckingham. His mind + revolted at the idea, that the person to whom he had been so particularly + indulgent, and whom he had selected as the friend of his lighter hours and + amusements, should prove capable of having tampered with a plot apparently + directed against his liberty and life. He more than once examined the + dwarf anew, but could extract nothing more than his first narrative + contained. The apparition of the female to him in the cell of Newgate, he + described in such fanciful and romantic colours, that the King could not + help thinking the poor man's head a little turned; and, as nothing was + found in the kettledrum, and other musical instruments brought for the use + of the Duke's band of foreigners, he nourished some slight hope that the + whole plan might be either a mere jest, or that the idea of an actual + conspiracy was founded in mistake. + </p> + <p> + The persons who had been despatched to watch the motions of Mr. Weiver's + congregation, brought back word that they had quietly dispersed. It was + known, at the same time, that they had met in arms, but this augured no + particular design of aggression, at a time when all true Protestants + conceived themselves in danger of immediate massacre; when the fathers of + the city had repeatedly called out the Train-Bands, and alarmed the + citizens of London, under the idea of an instant insurrection of the + Catholics; and when, to sum the whole up, in the emphatic words of an + alderman of the day, there was a general belief that they would all waken + some unhappy morning with their throats cut. Who was to do these dire + deeds, it was more difficult to suppose; but all admitted the possibility + that they might be achieved, since one Justice of the Peace was already + murdered. There was, therefore, no inference of hostile intentions against + the State, to be decidedly derived from a congregation of Protestants <i>par + excellence</i>, military from old associations, bringing their arms with + them to a place of worship, in the midst of a panic so universal. + </p> + <p> + Neither did the violent language of the minister, supposing that to be + proved, absolutely infer meditated violence. The favourite parables of the + preachers, and the metaphors and ornaments which they selected, were at + all times of a military cast; and the taking the kingdom of heaven by + storm, a strong and beautiful metaphor, when used generally as in + Scripture, was detailed in their sermons in all the technical language of + the attack and defence of a fortified place. The danger, in short, + whatever might have been its actual degree, had disappeared as suddenly as + a bubble upon the water, when broken by a casual touch, and had left as + little trace behind it. It became, therefore, matter of much doubt, + whether it had ever actually existed. + </p> + <p> + While various reports were making from without, and while their tenor was + discussed by the King, and such nobles and statesmen as he thought proper + to consult on the occasion, a gradual sadness and anxiety mingled with, + and finally silenced, the mirth of the evening. All became sensible that + something unusual was going forward; and the unwonted distance which + Charles maintained from his guests, while it added greatly to the dulness + that began to predominate in the presence-chamber, gave intimation that + something unusual was labouring in the King's mind. + </p> + <p> + Thus play was neglected—the music was silent, or played without + being heard—gallants ceased to make compliments, and ladies to + expect them; and a sort of apprehensive curiosity pervaded the circle. + Each asked the others why they were grave; and no answer was returned, any + more than could have been rendered by a herd of cattle instinctively + disturbed by the approach of a thunderstorm. + </p> + <p> + To add to the general apprehension, it began to be whispered, that one or + two of the guests, who were desirous of leaving the palace, had been + informed no one could be permitted to retire until the general hour of + dismissal. And these, gliding back into the hall, communicated in whispers + that the sentinels at the gates were doubled, and that there was a troop + of the Horse Guards drawn up in the court—circumstances so unusual, + as to excite the most anxious curiosity. + </p> + <p> + Such was the state of the Court, when wheels were heard without, and the + bustle which took place denoted the arrival of some person of consequence. + </p> + <p> + "Here comes Chiffinch," said the King, "with his prey in his clutch." + </p> + <p> + It was indeed the Duke of Buckingham; nor did he approach the royal + presence without emotion. On entering the court, the flambeaux which were + borne around the carriage gleamed on the scarlet coats, laced hats, and + drawn broadswords of the Horse Guards—a sight unusual, and + calculated to strike terror into a conscience which was none of the + clearest. + </p> + <p> + The Duke alighted from the carriage, and only said to the officer, whom he + saw upon duty, "You are late under arms to-night, Captain Carleton." + </p> + <p> + "Such are our orders, sir," answered Carleton, with military brevity; and + then commanded the four dismounted sentinels at the under gate to make way + for the Duke of Buckingham. His Grace had no sooner entered, than he heard + behind him the command, "Move close up, sentinels—closer yet to the + gate." And he felt as if all chance of rescue were excluded by the sound. + </p> + <p> + As he advanced up the grand staircase, there were other symptoms of alarm + and precaution. The Yeomen of the Guard were mustered in unusual numbers, + and carried carabines instead of their halberds; and the + Gentlemen-pensioners, with their partisans, appeared also in proportional + force. In short, all that sort of defence which the royal household + possesses within itself, seemed, for some hasty and urgent reason, to have + been placed under arms, and upon duty. + </p> + <p> + Buckingham ascended the royal staircase with an eye attentive to these + preparations, and a step steady and slow, as if he counted each step on + which he trode. "Who," he asked himself, "shall ensure Christian's + fidelity? Let him but stand fast, and we are secure. Otherwise——" + </p> + <p> + As he shaped the alternative, he entered the presence-chamber. + </p> + <p> + The King stood in the midst of the apartment, surrounded by the personages + with whom he had been consulting. The rest of the brilliant assembly, + scattered into groups, looked on at some distance. All were silent when + Buckingham entered, in hopes of receiving some explanation of the + mysteries of the evening. All bent forward, though etiquette forbade them + to advance, to catch, if possible, something of what was about to pass + betwixt the King and his intriguing statesman. At the same time, those + counsellors who stood around Charles, drew back on either side, so as to + permit the Duke to pay his respects to his Majesty in the usual form. He + went through the ceremonial with his accustomed grace, but was received by + Charles with much unwonted gravity. + </p> + <p> + "We have waited for you some time, my Lord Duke. It is long since + Chiffinch left us, to request your attendance here. I see you are + elaborately dressed. Your toilette was needless on the present occasion." + </p> + <p> + "Needless to the splendour of your Majesty's Court," said the Duke, "but + not needless on my part. This chanced to be Black Monday at York Place, + and my club of <i>Pendables</i> were in full glee when your Majesty's + summons arrived. I could not be in the company of Ogle, Maniduc, Dawson, + and so forth, but what I must needs make some preparation, and some + ablution, ere entering the circle here." + </p> + <p> + "I trust the purification will be complete," said the King, without any + tendency to the smile which always softened features, that, ungilded by + its influence, were dark, harsh, and even severe. "We wished to ask your + Grace concerning the import of a sort of musical mask which you designed + us here, but which miscarried, as we are given to understand." + </p> + <p> + "It must have been a great miscarriage indeed," said the Duke, "since your + Majesty looks so serious on it. I thought to have done your Majesty + pleasure (as I have seen you condescend to be pleased with such passages), + by sending the contents of that bass-viol; but I fear the jest has been + unacceptable—I fear the fireworks may have done mischief." + </p> + <p> + "Not the mischief they were designed for, perhaps," said the King gravely; + "you see, my lord, we are all alive, and unsinged." + </p> + <p> + "Long may your Majesty remain so," said the Duke; "yet I see there is + something misconstrued on my part—it must be a matter unpardonable, + however little intended, since it hath displeased so indulgent a master." + </p> + <p> + "Too indulgent a master, indeed, Buckingham," replied the King; "and the + fruit of my indulgence has been to change loyal men into traitors." + </p> + <p> + "May it please your Majesty, I cannot understand this," said the Duke. + </p> + <p> + "Follow us, my lord," answered Charles, "and we will endeavour to explain + our meaning." + </p> + <p> + Attended by the same lords who stood around him, and followed by the Duke + of Buckingham, on whom all eyes were fixed, Charles retired into the same + cabinet which had been the scene of repeated consultations in the course + of the evening. There, leaning with his arms crossed on the back of an + easy-chair, Charles proceeded to interrogate the suspected nobleman. + </p> + <p> + "Let us be plain with each other. Speak out, Buckingham. What, in one + word, was to have been the regale intended for us this evening?" + </p> + <p> + "A petty mask, my lord. I had destined a little dancing-girl to come out + of that instrument, who, I thought, would have performed to your Majesty's + liking—a few Chinese fireworks there were, thinking the + entertainment was to have taken place in the marble hall, might, I hoped, + have been discharged with good effect, and without the slightest alarm, at + the first appearance of my little sorceress, and were designed to have + masked, as it were, her entrance upon the stage. I hope there have been no + perukes singed—no ladies frightened—no hopes of noble descent + interrupted by my ill-fancied jest." + </p> + <p> + "We have seen no such fireworks, my lord; and your female dancer, of whom + we now hear for the first time, came forth in the form of our old + acquaintance Geoffrey Hudson, whose dancing days are surely ended." + </p> + <p> + "Your Majesty surprises me! I beseech you, let Christian be sent for—Edward + Christian—he will be found lodging in a large old house near Sharper + the cutler's, in the Strand. As I live by bread, sire, I trusted him with + the arrangement of this matter, as indeed the dancing-girl was his + property. If he has done aught to dishonour my concert, or disparage my + character, he shall die under the baton." + </p> + <p> + "It is singular," said the King, "and I have often observed it, that this + fellow Christian bears the blame of all men's enormities—he performs + the part which, in a great family, is usually assigned to that + mischief-doing personage, Nobody. When Chiffinch blunders, he always + quotes Christian. When Sheffield writes a lampoon, I am sure to hear of + Christian having corrected, or copied, or dispersed it—he is the <i>ame + damnée</i> of every one about my Court—the scapegoat, who is to + carry away all their iniquities; and he will have a cruel load to bear + into the wilderness. But for Buckingham's sins, in particular, he is the + regular and uniform sponsor; and I am convinced his Grace expects + Christian should suffer every penalty he has incurred, in this world or + the next." + </p> + <p> + "Not so," with the deepest reverence replied the Duke. "I have no hope of + being either hanged or damned by proxy; but it is clear some one hath + tampered with and altered my device. If I am accused of aught, let me at + least hear the charge, and see my accuser." + </p> + <p> + "That is but fair," said the King. "Bring our little friend from behind + the chimney-board. [Hudson being accordingly produced, he continued.] + There stands the Duke of Buckingham. Repeat before him the tale you told + us. Let him hear what were those contents of the bass-viol which were + removed that you might enter it. Be not afraid of any one, but speak the + truth boldly." + </p> + <p> + "May it please your Majesty," said Hudson, "fear is a thing unknown to + me." + </p> + <p> + "His body has no room to hold such a passion; or there is too little of it + to be worth fearing for," said Buckingham.—"But let him speak." + </p> + <p> + Ere Hudson had completed his tale, Buckingham interrupted him by + exclaiming, "Is it possible that I can be suspected by your Majesty on the + word of this pitiful variety of the baboon tribe?" + </p> + <p> + "Villain-Lord, I appeal thee to the combat!" said the little man, highly + offended at the appellation thus bestowed on him. + </p> + <p> + "La you there now!" said the Duke—"The little animal is quite + crazed, and defies a man who need ask no other weapon than a corking-pin + to run him through the lungs, and whose single kick could hoist him from + Dover to Calais without yacht or wherry. And what can you expect from an + idiot, who is <i>engoué</i> of a common rope-dancing girl, that capered on + a pack-thread at Ghent in Flanders, unless they were to club their talents + to set up a booth at Bartholomew Fair?—Is it not plain, that + supposing the little animal is not malicious, as indeed his whole kind + bear a general and most cankered malice against those who have the + ordinary proportions of humanity—Grant, I say, that this were not a + malicious falsehood of his, why, what does it amount to?—That he has + mistaken squibs and Chinese crackers for arms! He says not he himself + touched or handled them; and judging by the sight alone, I question if the + infirm old creature, when any whim or preconception hath possession of his + noddle, can distinguish betwixt a blunderbuss and a black-pudding." + </p> + <p> + The horrible clamour which the dwarf made so soon as he heard this + disparagement of his military skill—the haste with which he + blundered out a detail of this warlike experiences—and the absurd + grimaces which he made in order to enforce his story, provoked not only + the risibility of Charles, but even of the statesmen around him, and added + absurdity to the motley complexion of the scene. The King terminated this + dispute, by commanding the dwarf to withdraw. + </p> + <p> + A more regular discussion of his evidence was then resumed, and Ormond was + the first who pointed out, that it went farther than had been noticed, + since the little man had mentioned a certain extraordinary and treasonable + conversation held by the Duke's dependents, by whom he had been conveyed + to the palace. + </p> + <p> + "I am sure not to lack my lord of Ormond's good word," said the Duke + scornfully; "but I defy him alike, and all my other enemies, and shall + find it easy to show that this alleged conspiracy, if any grounds for it + at all exist, in a mere sham-plot, got up to turn the odium justly + attached to the Papists upon the Protestants. Here is a half-hanged + creature, who, on the very day he escapes from the gallows, which many + believe was his most deserved destiny, comes to take away the reputation + of a Protestant Peer—and on what?—on the treasonable + conversation of three or four German fiddlers, heard through the + sound-holes of a violoncello, and that, too, when the creature was incased + in it, and mounted on a man's shoulders! The urchin, too, in repeating + their language, shows he understands German as little as my horse does; + and if he did rightly hear, truly comprehend, and accurately report what + they said, still, is my honour to be touched by the language held by such + persons as these are, with whom I have never communicated, otherwise than + men of my rank do with those of their calling and capacity?—Pardon + me, sire, if I presume to say, that the profound statesmen who endeavoured + to stifle the Popish conspiracy by the pretended Meal-tub Plot, will take + little more credit by their figments about fiddles and concertos." + </p> + <p> + The assistant counsellors looked at each other; and Charles turned on his + heel, and walked through the room with long steps. + </p> + <p> + At this period the Peverils, father and son, were announced to have + reached the palace, and were ordered into the royal presence. + </p> + <p> + These gentlemen had received the royal mandate at a moment of great + interest. After being dismissed from their confinement by the elder + Bridgenorth, in the manner and upon the terms which the reader must have + gathered from the conversation of the latter with Christian, they reached + the lodgings of Lady Peveril, who awaited them with joy, mingled with + terror and uncertainty. The news of the acquittal had reached her by the + exertions of the faithful Lance Outram, but her mind had been since + harassed by the long delay of their appearance, and rumours of + disturbances which had taken place in Fleet Street and in the Strand. + </p> + <p> + When the first rapturous meeting was over, Lady Peveril, with an anxious + look towards her son, as if recommending caution, said she was now about + to present to him the daughter of an old friend, whom he had <i>never</i> + (there was an emphasis on the word) seen before. "This young lady," she + continued, "was the only child of Colonel Mitford, in North Wales, who had + sent her to remain under her guardianship for an interval, finding himself + unequal to attempt the task of her education." + </p> + <p> + "Ay, ay," said Sir Geoffrey, "Dick Mitford must be old now—beyond + the threescore and ten, I think. He was no chicken, though a cock of the + game, when he joined the Marquis of Hertford at Namptwich with two hundred + wild Welshmen.—Before George, Julian, I love that girl as if she was + my own flesh and blood! Lady Peveril would never have got through this + work without her; and Dick Mitford sent me a thousand pieces, too, in + excellent time, when there was scarce a cross to keep the devil from + dancing in our pockets, much more for these law-doings. I used it without + scruple, for there is wood ready to be cut at Martindale when we get down + there, and Dick Mitford knows I would have done the like for him. Strange + that he should have been the only one of my friends to reflect I might + want a few pieces." + </p> + <p> + Whilst Sir Geoffrey thus run on, the meeting betwixt Alice and Julian + Peveril was accomplished, without any particular notice on his side, + except to say, "Kiss her, Julian—kiss her. What the devil! is that + the way you learned to accost a lady at the Isle of Man, as if her lips + were a red-hot horseshoe?—And do not you be offended, my pretty one; + Julian is naturally bashful, and has been bred by an old lady, but you + will find him, by-and-by, as gallant as thou hast found me, my princess.—And + now, Dame Peveril, to dinner, to dinner! the old fox must have his + belly-timber, though the hounds have been after him the whole day." + </p> + <p> + Lance, whose joyous congratulations were next to be undergone, had the + consideration to cut them short, in order to provide a plain but hearty + meal from the next cook's shop, at which Julian sat, like one enchanted, + betwixt his mistress and his mother. He easily conceived that the last was + the confidential friend to whom Bridgenorth had finally committed the + charge of his daughter, and his only anxiety now was, to anticipate the + confusion that was likely to arise when her real parentage was made known + to his father. Wisely, however, he suffered not these anticipations to + interfere with the delight of his present situation, in the course of + which many slight but delightful tokens of recognition were exchanged, + without censure, under the eye of Lady Peveril, under cover of the + boisterous mirth of the old Baronet, who spoke for two, ate for four, and + drank wine for half-a-dozen. His progress in the latter exercise might + have proceeded rather too far, had he not been interrupted by a gentleman + bearing the King's orders, that he should instantly attend upon the + presence at Whitehall, and bring his son along with him. + </p> + <p> + Lady Peveril was alarmed, and Alice grew pale with sympathetic anxiety; + but the old Knight, who never saw more than what lay straight before him, + set it down to the King's hasty anxiety to congratulate him on his escape; + an interest on his Majesty's part which he considered by no means + extravagant, conscious that it was reciprocal on his own side. It came + upon him, indeed, with the more joyful surprise that he had received a + previous hint, ere he left the court of justice, that it would be prudent + in him to go down to Martindale before presenting himself at Court—a + restriction which he supposed as repugnant to his Majesty's feelings as it + was to his own. + </p> + <p> + While he consulted with Lance Outram about cleaning his buff-belt and + sword-hilt, as well as time admitted, Lady Peveril had the means to give + Julian more distinct information, that Alice was under her protection by + her father's authority, and with his consent to their union, if it could + be accomplished. She added that it was her determination to employ the + mediation of the Countess of Derby, to overcome the obstacles which might + be foreseen on the part of Sir Geoffrey. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0049" id="link2HCH0049"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XLIX + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + In the King's name, + Let fall your swords and daggers! + —CRITIC. +</pre> + <p> + When the father and son entered the cabinet of audience, it was easily + visible that Sir Geoffrey had obeyed the summons as he would have done the + trumpet's call to horse; and his dishevelled grey locks and half-arranged + dress, though they showed zeal and haste, such as he would have used when + Charles I. called him to attend a council of war, seemed rather indecorous + in a pacific drawing-room. He paused at the door of the cabinet, but when + the King called on him to advance, came hastily forward, with every + feeling of his earlier and later life afloat, and contending in his + memory, threw himself on his knees before the King, seized his hand, and, + without even an effort to speak, wept aloud. Charles, who generally felt + deeply so long as an impressive object was before his eyes, indulged for a + moment the old man's rapture.—"My good Sir Geoffrey," he said, "you + have had some hard measure; we owe you amends, and will find time to pay + our debt." + </p> + <p> + "No suffering—no debt," said the old man; "I cared not what the + rogues said of me—I knew they could never get twelve honest fellows + to believe a word of their most damnable lies. I did long to beat them + when they called me traitor to your Majesty—that I confess—But + to have such an early opportunity of paying my duty to your Majesty, + overpays it all. The villains would have persuaded me I ought not to come + to Court—aha!" + </p> + <p> + The Duke of Ormond perceived that the King coloured much; for in truth it + was from the Court that the private intimation had been given to Sir + Geoffrey to go down to the country, without appearing at Whitehall; and + he, moreover, suspected that the jolly old Knight had not risen from his + dinner altogether dry-lipped, after the fatigues of a day so agitating.—"My + old friend," he whispered, "you forget that your son is to be presented—permit + me to have that honour." + </p> + <p> + "I crave your Grace's pardon humbly," said Sir Geoffrey, "but it is an + honour I design for myself, as I apprehend no one can so utterly surrender + and deliver him up to his Majesty's service as the father that begot him + is entitled to do.—Julian, come forward, and kneel.—Here he + is, please your Majesty—Julian Peveril—a chip of the old block—as + stout, though scarce so tall a tree, as the old trunk, when at the + freshest. Take him to you, sir, for a faithful servant, <i>à pendre</i>, + as the French say; if he fears fire or steel, axe or gallows, in your + Majesty's service, I renounce him—he is no son of mine—I + disown him, and he may go to the Isle of Man, the Isle of Dogs, or the + Isle of Devils, for what I care." + </p> + <p> + Charles winked to Ormond, and having, with his wonted courtesy, expressed + his thorough conviction that Julian would imitate the loyalty of his + ancestors, and especially of his father, added, that he believed his Grace + of Ormond had something to communicate which was of consequence to his + service. Sir Geoffrey made his military reverence at this hint, and + marched off in the rear of the Duke, who proceeded to inquire of him + concerning the events of the day. Charles, in the meanwhile, having in the + first place, ascertained that the son was not in the same genial condition + with the father, demanded and received from him a precise account of all + the proceedings subsequent to the trial. + </p> + <p> + Julian, with the plainness and precision which such a subject demanded, + when treated in such a presence, narrated all that happened down to the + entrance of Bridgenorth; and his Majesty was so much pleased with his + manner, that he congratulated Arlington on their having gained the + evidence of at least one man of sense to these dark and mysterious events. + But when Bridgenorth was brought upon the scene, Julian hesitated to + bestow a name upon him; and although he mentioned the chapel which he had + seen filled with men in arms, and the violent language of the preacher, he + added, with earnestness, that notwithstanding all this, the men departed + without coming to any extremity, and had all left the place before his + father and he were set at liberty. + </p> + <p> + "And you retired quietly to your dinner in Fleet Street, young man," said + the King severely, "without giving a magistrate notice of the dangerous + meeting which was held in the vicinity of our palace, and who did not + conceal their intention of proceeding to extremities?" + </p> + <p> + Peveril blushed, and was silent. The King frowned, and stepped aside to + communicate with Ormond, who reported that the father seemed to have known + nothing of the matter. + </p> + <p> + "And the son, I am sorry to say," said the King, "seems more unwilling to + speak the truth than I should have expected. We have all variety of + evidence in this singular investigation—a mad witness like the + dwarf, a drunken witness like the father, and now a dumb witness.—Young + man," he continued, addressing Julian, "your behaviour is less frank than + I expected from your father's son. I must know who this person is with + whom you held such familiar intercourse—you know him, I presume?" + </p> + <p> + Julian acknowledged that he did, but, kneeling on one knee, entreated his + Majesty's forgiveness for concealing his name; "he had been freed," he + said, "from his confinement, on promising to that effect." + </p> + <p> + "That was a promise made, by your own account, under compulsion," answered + the King, "and I cannot authorise your keeping it; it is your duty to + speak the truth—if you are afraid of Buckingham, the Duke shall + withdraw." + </p> + <p> + "I have no reason to fear the Duke of Buckingham," said Peveril; "that I + had an affair with one of his household, was the man's own fault and not + mine." + </p> + <p> + "Oddsfish!" said the King, "the light begins to break in on me—I + thought I remembered thy physiognomy. Wert thou not the very fellow whom I + met at Chiffinch's yonder morning?—The matter escaped me since; but + now I recollect thou saidst then, that thou wert the son of that jolly old + three-bottle Baronet yonder." + </p> + <p> + "It is true," said Julian, "that I met your Majesty at Master Chiffinch's, + and I am afraid had the misfortune to displease you; but——" + </p> + <p> + "No more of that, young man—no more of that—But I recollect + you had with you that beautiful dancing siren.—Buckingham, I will + hold you gold to silver, that she was the intended tenant of that + bass-fiddle?" + </p> + <p> + "Your Majesty has rightly guessed it," said the Duke; "and I suspect she + has put a trick upon me, by substituting the dwarf in her place; for + Christian thinks——" + </p> + <p> + "Damn Christian!" said the King hastily—"I wish they would bring him + hither, that universal referee."—And as the wish was uttered, + Christian's arrival was announced. "Let him attend," said the King: "But + hark—a thought strikes me.—Here, Master Peveril—yonder + dancing maiden that introduced you to us by the singular agility of her + performance, is she not, by your account, a dependent of the Countess of + Derby?" + </p> + <p> + "I have known her such for years," answered Julian. + </p> + <p> + "Then will we call the Countess hither," said the King: "It is fit we + should learn who this little fairy really is; and if she be now so + absolutely at the beck of Buckingham, and this Master Christian of his—why + I think it would be but charity to let her ladyship know so much, since I + question if she will wish, in that case, to retain her in her service. + Besides," he continued, speaking apart, "this Julian, to whom suspicion + attaches in these matters from his obstinate silence, is also of the + Countess's household. We will sift this matter to the bottom, and do + justice to all." + </p> + <p> + The Countess of Derby, hastily summoned, entered the royal closet at one + door, just as Christian and Zarah, or Fenella, were ushered in by the + other. The old Knight of Martindale, who had ere this returned to the + presence, was scarce controlled, even by the signs which she made, so much + was he desirous of greeting his old friend; but as Ormond laid a kind + restraining hand upon his arm, he was prevailed on to sit still. + </p> + <p> + The Countess, after a deep reverence to the King, acknowledged the rest of + the nobility present by a slighter reverence, smiled to Julian Peveril, + and looked with surprise at the unexpected apparition of Fenella. + Buckingham bit his lip, for he saw the introduction of Lady Derby was + likely to confuse and embroil every preparation which he had arranged for + his defence; and he stole a glance at Christian, whose eye, when fixed on + the Countess, assumed the deadly sharpness which sparkles in the adder's, + while his cheek grew almost black under the influence of strong emotion. + </p> + <p> + "Is there any one in this presence whom your ladyship recognises," said + the King graciously, "besides your old friends of Ormond and Arlington?" + </p> + <p> + "I see, my liege, two worthy friends of my husband's house," replied the + Countess; "Sir Geoffrey Peveril and his son—the latter a + distinguished member of my son's household." + </p> + <p> + "Any one else?" continued the King. + </p> + <p> + "An unfortunate female of my family, who disappeared from the Island of + Man at the same time when Julian Peveril left it upon business of + importance. She was thought to have fallen from the cliff into the sea." + </p> + <p> + "Had your ladyship any reason to suspect—pardon me," said the King, + "for putting such a question—any improper intimacy between Master + Peveril and this same female attendant?" + </p> + <p> + "My liege," said the Countess, colouring indignantly, "my household is of + reputation." + </p> + <p> + "Nay, my lady, be not angry," said the King; "I did but ask—such + things will befall in the best regulated families." + </p> + <p> + "Not in mine, sire," said the Countess. "Besides that, in common pride and + in common honesty, Julian Peveril is incapable of intriguing with an + unhappy creature, removed by her misfortune almost beyond the limits of + humanity." + </p> + <p> + Zarah looked at her, and compressed her lips, as if to keep in the words + that would fain break from them. + </p> + <p> + "I know how it is," said the King—"What your ladyship says may be + true in the main, yet men's tastes have strange vagaries. This girl is + lost in Man as soon as the youth leaves it, and is found in Saint Jame's + Park, bouncing and dancing like a fairy, so soon as he appears in London." + </p> + <p> + "Impossible!" said the Countess; "she cannot dance." + </p> + <p> + "I believe," said the King, "she can do more feats than your ladyship + either suspects or would approve of." + </p> + <p> + The Countess drew up, and was indignantly silent. + </p> + <p> + The King proceeded—"No sooner is Peveril in Newgate, than, by the + account of the venerable little gentleman, this merry maiden is even there + also for company. Now, without inquiring how she got in, I think + charitably that she had better taste than to come there on the dwarf's + account.—Ah ha! I think Master Julian is touched in conscience!" + </p> + <p> + Julian did indeed start as the King spoke, for it reminded him of the + midnight visit in his cell. + </p> + <p> + The King looked fixedly at him, and then proceeded—"Well, gentlemen, + Peveril is carried to his trial, and is no sooner at liberty, than we find + him in the house where the Duke of Buckingham was arranging what he calls + a musical mask.—Egad, I hold it next to certain, that this wench put + the change on his Grace, and popt the poor dwarf into the bass-viol, + reserving her own more precious hours to be spent with Master Julian + Peveril.—Think you not so, Sir Christian, you, the universal + referee? Is there any truth in this conjecture?" + </p> + <p> + Christian stole a glance at Zarah, and read that in her eye which + embarrassed him. "He did not know," he said; "he had indeed engaged this + unrivalled performer to take the proposed part in the mask; and she was to + have come forth in the midst of a shower of lambent fire, very + artificially prepared with perfumes, to overcome the smell of the powder; + but he knew not why—excepting that she was wilful and capricious, + like all great geniuses—she had certainly spoiled the concert by + cramming in that more bulky dwarf." + </p> + <p> + "I should like," said the King, "to see this little maiden stand forth, + and bear witness, in such manner as she can express herself, on this + mysterious matter. Can any one here understand her mode of communication?" + </p> + <p> + Christian said, he knew something of it since he had become acquainted + with her in London. The Countess spoke not till the King asked her, and + then owned dryly, that she had necessarily some habitual means of + intercourse with one who had been immediately about her person for so many + years. + </p> + <p> + "I should think," said Charles, "that this same Master Peveril has the + more direct key to her language, after all we have heard." + </p> + <p> + The King looked first at Peveril, who blushed like a maiden at the + inference which the King's remark implied, and then suddenly turned his + eyes on the supposed mute, on whose cheek a faint colour was dying away. A + moment afterwards, at a signal from the Countess, Fenella, or Zarah, + stepped forward, and having kissed her lady's hand, stood with her arms + folded on her breast, with a humble air, as different from that which she + wore in the harem of the Duke of Buckingham, as that of a Magdalene from a + Judith. Yet this was the least show of her talent of versatility, for so + well did she play the part of the dumb girl, that Buckingham, sharp as his + discernment was, remained undecided whether the creature which stood + before him could possibly be the same with her, who had, in a different + dress, made such an impression on his imagination, or indeed was the + imperfect creature she now represented. She had at once all that could + mark the imperfection of hearing, and all that could show the wonderful + address by which nature so often makes up of the deficiency. There was the + lip that trembles not at any sound—the seeming insensibility to the + conversation that passed around; while, on the other hand, was the quick + and vivid glance; that seemed anxious to devour the meaning of those + sounds, which she could gather no otherwise than by the motion of the + lips. + </p> + <p> + Examined after her own fashion, Zarah confirmed the tale of Christian in + all its points, and admitted that she had deranged the project laid for a + mask, by placing the dwarf in her own stead; the cause of her doing so she + declined to assign, and the Countess pressed her no farther. + </p> + <p> + "Everything tells to exculpate my Lord of Buckingham," said Charles, "from + so absurd an accusation: the dwarf's testimony is too fantastic, that of + the two Peverils does not in the least affect the Duke; that of the dumb + damsel completely contradicts the possibility of his guilt. Methinks, my + lords, we should acquaint him that he stands acquitted of a complaint, too + ridiculous to have been subjected to a more serious scrutiny than we have + hastily made upon this occasion." + </p> + <p> + Arlington bowed in acquiescence, but Ormond spoke plainly.—"I should + suffer, sire, in the opinion of the Duke of Buckingham, brilliant as his + talents are known to be, should I say that I am satisfied in my own mind + on this occasion. But I subscribe to the spirit of the times; and I agree + it would be highly dangerous, on such accusations as we have been able to + collect, to impeach the character of a zealous Protestant like his Grace—Had + he been a Catholic, under such circumstances of suspicion, the Tower had + been too good a prison for him." + </p> + <p> + Buckingham bowed to the Duke of Ormond, with a meaning which even his + triumph could not disguise.—"<i>Tu me la pagherai!</i>" he muttered, + in a tone of deep and abiding resentment; but the stout old Irishman, who + had long since braved his utmost wrath, cared little for this expression + of his displeasure. + </p> + <p> + The King then, signing to the other nobles to pass into the public + apartments, stopped Buckingham as he was about to follow them; and when + they were alone, asked, with a significant tone, which brought all the + blood in the Duke's veins into his countenance, "When was it, George, that + your useful friend Colonel Blood became a musician?—You are silent," + he said; "do not deny the charge, for yonder villain, once seen, is + remembered for ever. Down, down on your knees, George, and acknowledge + that you have abused my easy temper.—Seek for no apology—none + will serve your turn. I saw the man myself, among your Germans as you call + them; and you know what I must needs believe from such a circumstance." + </p> + <p> + "Believe that I have been guilty—most guilty, my liege and King," + said the Duke, conscience-stricken, and kneeling down;—"believe that + I was misguided—that I was mad—Believe anything but that I was + capable of harming, or being accessory to harm, your person." + </p> + <p> + "I do not believe it," said the King; "I think of you, Villiers, as the + companion of my dangers and my exile, and am so far from supposing you + mean worse than you say, that I am convinced you acknowledge more than + ever you meant to attempt." + </p> + <p> + "By all that is sacred," said the Duke, still kneeling, "had I not been + involved to the extent of life and fortune with the villain Christian——" + </p> + <p> + "Nay, if you bring Christian on the stage again," said the King, smiling, + "it is time for me to withdraw. Come, Villiers, rise—I forgive thee, + and only recommend one act of penance—the curse you yourself + bestowed on the dog who bit you—marriage, and retirement to your + country-seat." + </p> + <p> + The Duke rose abashed, and followed the King into the circle, which + Charles entered, leaning on the shoulder of his repentant peer; to whom he + showed so much countenance, as led the most acute observers present, to + doubt the possibility of there existing any real cause for the surmises to + the Duke's prejudice. + </p> + <p> + The Countess of Derby had in the meanwhile consulted with the Duke of + Ormond, with the Peverils, and with her other friends; and, by their + unanimous advice, though with considerable difficulty, became satisfied, + that to have thus shown herself at Court, was sufficient to vindicate the + honour of her house; and that it was her wisest course, after having done + so, to retire to her insular dominions, without farther provoking the + resentment of a powerful faction. She took farewell of the King in form, + and demanded his permission to carry back with her the helpless creature + who had so strangely escaped from her protection, into a world where her + condition rendered her so subject to every species of misfortune. + </p> + <p> + "Will your ladyship forgive me?" said Charles. "I have studied your sex + long—I am mistaken if your little maiden is not as capable of caring + for herself as any of us." + </p> + <p> + "Impossible!" said the Countess. + </p> + <p> + "Possible, and most true," whispered the King. "I will instantly convince + you of the fact, though the experiment is too delicate to be made by any + but your ladyship. Yonder she stands, looking as if she heard no more than + the marble pillar against which she leans. Now, if Lady Derby will + contrive either to place her hand near the region of the damsel's heart, + or at least on her arm, so that she can feel the sensation of the blood + when the pulse increases, then do you, my Lord of Ormond, beckon Julian + Peveril out of sight—I will show you in a moment that it can stir at + sounds spoken." + </p> + <p> + The Countess, much surprised, afraid of some embarrassing pleasantry on + the part of Charles, yet unable to repress her curiosity, placed herself + near Fenella, as she called her little mute; and, while making signs to + her, contrived to place her hand on her wrist. + </p> + <p> + At this moment the King, passing near them, said, "This is a horrid deed—the + villain Christian has stabbed young Peveril!" + </p> + <p> + The mute evidence of the pulse, which bounded as if a cannon had been + discharged close by the poor girl's ear, was accompanied by such a loud + scream of agony, as distressed, while it startled, the good-natured + monarch himself. "I did but jest," he said; "Julian is well, my pretty + maiden. I only used the wand of a certain blind deity, called Cupid, to + bring a deaf and dumb vassal of his to the exercise of her faculties." + </p> + <p> + "I am betrayed!" she said, with her eyes fixed on the ground—"I am + betrayed!—and it is fit that she, whose life has been spent in + practising treason on others, should be caught in her own snare. But where + is my tutor in iniquity?—where is Christian, who taught me to play + the part of spy on this unsuspicious lady, until I had well-nigh delivered + her into his bloody hands?" + </p> + <p> + "This," said the King, "craves more secret examination. Let all leave the + apartment who are not immediately connected with these proceedings, and + let this Christian be again brought before us.—Wretched man," he + continued, addressing Christian, "what wiles are these you have practised, + and by what extraordinary means?" + </p> + <p> + "She has betrayed me, then!" said Christian—"Betrayed me to bonds + and death, merely for an idle passion, which can never be successful!—But + know, Zarah," he added, addressing her sternly, "when my life is forfeited + through thy evidence, the daughter has murdered the father!" + </p> + <p> + The unfortunate girl stared on him in astonishment. "You said," at length + she stammered forth, "that I was the daughter of your slaughtered + brother?" + </p> + <p> + "That was partly to reconcile thee to the part thou wert to play in my + destined drama of vengeance—partly to hide what men call the infamy + of thy birth. But <i>my</i> daughter thou art! and from the eastern clime, + in which thy mother was born, you derive that fierce torrent of passion + which I laboured to train to my purposes, but which, turned into another + channel, has become the cause of your father's destruction.—My + destiny is the Tower, I suppose?" + </p> + <p> + He spoke these words with great composure, and scarce seemed to regard the + agonies of his daughter, who, throwing herself at his feet, sobbed and + wept most bitterly. + </p> + <p> + "This must not be," said the King, moved with compassion at this scene of + misery. "If you consent, Christian, to leave this country, there is a + vessel in the river bound for New England—Go, carry your dark + intrigues to other lands." + </p> + <p> + "I might dispute the sentence," said Christian boldly; "and if I submit to + it, it is a matter of my own choice.—One half-hour had made me even + with that proud woman, but fortune hath cast the balance against me.—Rise, + Zarah, Fenella no more! Tell the Lady of Derby, that, if the daughter of + Edward Christian, the niece of her murdered victim, served her as a + menial, it was but for the purpose of vengeance—miserably, miserably + frustrated!—Thou seest thy folly now—thou wouldst follow + yonder ungrateful stripling—thou wouldst forsake all other thoughts + to gain his slightest notice; and now thou art a forlorn outcast, + ridiculed and insulted by those on whose necks you might have trod, had + you governed yourself with more wisdom!—But come, thou art still my + daughter—there are other skies than that which canopies Britain." + </p> + <p> + "Stop him," said the King; "we must know by what means this maiden found + access to those confined in our prisons." + </p> + <p> + "I refer your Majesty to your most Protestant jailer, and to the most + Protestant Peers, who, in order to obtain perfect knowledge of the depth + of the Popish Plot, have contrived these ingenious apertures for visiting + them in their cells by night or day. His Grace of Buckingham can assist + your Majesty, if you are inclined to make the inquiry."[*] + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +[*] It was said that very unfair means were used to compel the + prisoners, committed on account of the Popish Plot, to make + disclosures, and that several of them were privately put to the + torture. +</pre> + <p> + "Christian," said the Duke, "thou art the most barefaced villain who ever + breathed." + </p> + <p> + "Of a commoner, I may," answered Christian, and led his daughter out of + the presence. + </p> + <p> + "See after him, Selby," said the King; "lose not sight of him till the + ship sail; if he dare return to Britain, it shall be at his peril. Would + to God we had as good riddance of others as dangerous! And I would also," + he added, after a moment's pause, "that all our political intrigues and + feverish alarms could terminate as harmlessly as now. Here is a plot + without a drop of blood; and all the elements of a romance, without its + conclusion. Here we have a wandering island princess (I pray my Lady of + Derby's pardon), a dwarf, a Moorish sorceress, an impenitent rogue, and a + repentant man of rank, and yet all ends without either hanging or + marriage." + </p> + <p> + "Not altogether without the latter," said the Countess, who had an + opportunity, during the evening, of much private conversation with Julian + Peveril. "There is a certain Major Bridgenorth, who, since your Majesty + relinquishes farther inquiry into these proceedings, which he had + otherwise intended to abide, designs, as we are informed, to leave England + for ever. Now, this Bridgenorth, by dint of law, hath acquired strong + possession over the domains of Peveril, which he is desirous to restore to + the ancient owners, with much fair land besides, conditionally, that our + young Julian will receive them as the dowry of his only child and heir." + </p> + <p> + "By my faith," said the King, "she must be a foul-favoured wench, indeed, + if Julian requires to be pressed to accept her on such fair conditions." + </p> + <p> + "They love each other like lovers of the last age," said the Countess; + "but the stout old Knight likes not the round-headed alliance." + </p> + <p> + "Our royal recommendation shall put that to rights," said the King; "Sir + Geoffrey Peveril has not suffered hardship so often at our command, that + he will refuse our recommendation when it comes to make him amends for all + his losses." + </p> + <p> + It may be supposed the King did not speak without being fully aware of the + unlimited ascendancy which he possessed over the old Tory; for within four + weeks afterwards, the bells of Martindale-Moultrassie were ringing for the + union of the families, from whose estates it takes its compound name, and + the beacon-light of the Castle blazed high over hill and dale, and + summoned all to rejoice who were within twenty miles of its gleam. + </p> + +<h3>THE END</h3> + +<div class="fig" style="width:65%;"> + <img src="images/0097m.jpg" alt="0097m " width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <h5> + <a href="images/0097.jpg"><i>Original</i></a> + </h5> + +<div class="fig" style="width:65%;"> + <img src="images/0129m.jpg" alt="0129m " width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <h5> + <a href="images/0129.jpg"><i>Original</i></a> + </h5> + +<div class="fig" style="width:65%;"> + <img src="images/0165m.jpg" alt="0165m " width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <h5> + <a href="images/0165.jpg"><i>Original</i></a> + </h5> + +<div class="fig" style="width:65%;"> + <img src="images/0208m.jpg" alt="0208m " width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <h5> + <a href="images/0208.jpg"><i>Original</i></a> + </h5> + +<div class="fig" style="width:65%;"> + <img src="images/0402m.jpg" alt="0402m " width="100%" /><br /> + </div> + <h5> + <a href="images/0402.jpg"><i>Original</i></a> + </h5> + + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Peveril of the Peak, by Sir Walter Scott + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK PEVERIL OF THE PEAK *** + +***** This file should be named 5959-h.htm or 5959-h.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + http://www.gutenberg.org/5/9/5/5959/ + +Produced by Emma Wong Shee, John Bickers, Dagny, and David Widger + + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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